Jeannie: Above average. Hopefully you can’t trip me up.

Q: How did you become a travel consultant?

Jeannie: I used to be a dietician and licensed in Ohio … but travel is what I liked best.

Q: Have you traveled to all seven continents?

Jeannie: No, I’ve never been to Antarctica, Africa or Australia, although I know people who have traveled to Antarctica, I have sent many honeymooners to Australia and have packaged many safaris to Africa.

Q: What are your favorite places to travel in North America?

Jeannie: I would have to say the Carolinas if wanting to take a relaxing vacation, or New York City for the excitement and ambiance.

Q: What about South America?

Jeannie: I absolutely loved Costa Rica. The people there are very friendly, plus you have volcanoes, rain forests, great sports fishing … the place is great.

Q: And Europe?

Jeannie: Italy. It may be my favorite place to travel. There is not a part of Italy I don’t like. You have to experience Venice when the tide comes in. It is very interesting. One of my favorite vacations is when my husband and I took a cruise from Monte Carlo to Venice. It is a trip where you will see everything.

Q: Name a place that everyone should travel to once in their life?

Jeannie: Istanbul. It is neat to be standing with one foot in Europe, the other foot in Asia. It is an amazing place.

Q: I thought you had never been to Asia (smiles).

Jeannie: Croatia is also a beautiful place that is worth seeing. No one ever says, “I want to go to Croatia,” but the country is absolutely breathtaking.

Q: Is traveling the world something only wealthy people can do, or can travel be accomplished by anyone for a relatively inexpensive price tag if the proper research is conducted?

Jeannie: Anyone can travel. I have done honeymoons for $900 and I have packaged vacations for $40,000. I can work with people and find the best deals for places most suited to their tastes and wants.

Posted by johnston at 07:56 PM

March 28, 2007

Sara Benjamin's hosting fundraiser

One busy weekend at Sara Benjamin's could literally save the lives of many in Africa.

Mariemont's clothing boutique will be hosting a fundraiser for Nothing But Nets, a global campaign to save lives by preventing malaria, one of the leading killers of children in Africa.

According to Nothingbutnets.com, malaria infects approximately 500 million people a year and kills more than one million of those infected.

The campaign helps raise money that will provide adequate bed nets that keep malaria-carrying mosquitos from biting people while sleeping.

Lori Tanzer, owner of Sara Benjamin's, will be carrying clothing by Loomstate, Twistedheart and Twilltwentytwo, all lines that are part of the Namaste Showroom. Sara Benjamin's has joined this showroom's fundraising team, Namaste for Nets, part of the global fundraising efforts of Nothing But Nets, Twenty percent of all sales on May 18, 19 and 20 will go directly to Namaste for Nets/NothingButNets.

With money raised from hosting the event, the nets will be transported to Africa and distributed to families.

The fundraiser will take place May 18-20. Sara Benjamin's is located in The Strand, beside The Dilly Deli and Eastern Hills Cleaners. Sara Benjamin's will have extended hours: Friday, May 18th - 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, May 19th - 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, May 20th - Noon to 5:00 p.m.

Posted by johnston at 06:16 PM

March 15, 2007

New book looks at UC in a photographic perspective

Robert Flischel believes for an urban school the University of Cincinnati is at the front of the class.

“It is not within the leafy confines of some other picturesque universities, but UC does possess a remarkable aesthetic and experience,” Flischel, proprietor of Robert A. Flischel Photography located in Mariemont, said.

With what he is most impressed and interested is the university’s architecture. That is why he has spent the past three years studying, visually breaking down and taking photos of 18 major buildings and sets of buildings that comprise the university.

The finished result will be a photography book on the old and new architecture of UC, a “… photographic portrait of the whole university with historical information throughout.

“I want to engage the viewer in what is really going on there,” Flischel said, “while following the administration’s mission that UC is an environmentally-friendly place of study.”

Flischel has already completed a photography book on the architecture of the Cincinnati city school buildings, a system that used to include the university. He felt now was the opportune time to complete the project.

So he approached UC officials three years ago to ask permission to conduct the project and has since been visiting the campus, looking at each building in its entirety, breaking each building down into its many details, studying light angles and reflection and determining points of perspective.

Three years later and a studio filled with beautiful pictures of UC, Flischel believes it is important for people to realize that if they just drive around the school they will not be able to experience what the architects have been able to successfully accomplish, “… which is an effort to unify the space and buildings and mix a lot of styles of architecture.

“People really need to walk throughout the campus,” he said.

Flischel is working with writer Jayne Merkle, who is writing the architectural introductions for each chapter in the book, and Kevin Grace, University of Cincinnati archivist, who is writing historical sidebars in the book.

A chapter of the book can be viewed by visiting www.robertflischel.com

The book will be available at every bookstore in September.

Posted by johnston at 03:33 PM

February 18, 2007

Cheese and wine and a really good time

The Dilly Deli will be hosting a "Cheese Tasting & Wine Dinner" with B.R. Cohn Winery Monday, Feb. 26.

But this will be a different sort of wine dinner, as befits B.R. Cohn, a Sonoma Valley estate started by the manager of the Doobie Brothers.

With only five wines in their portfolio, this outstanding source of great Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay represents the independent minds behind the wines perfectly, Dilly Deli owners Chuck and Robbie Warriner said.

From the winery will be Landon Patterson, who will host the dinner which comes in two parts. The first part wil have Landon pairing the wines with several of Robbie's fine cheeses. Then, for part two, the wines will be matched with Chef Eric's inspired offerings:

Crab Salad
Fresh Virginia lump crabmeat, Napa cabbage, Thai basil, and a vanilla aioli
B.R. Cohn Chardonnay Carneros

Kobe Beef Short Ribs
Braised Kobe beef short ribs & wild mushroom & smoked chestnut risotto finished with a dried cherry drizzle
B.R. Cohn Merlot Sonoma Valley

The cheese course/experience will feature these two wines along with the Cabernet Sauvignon (Silver Label), Cabernet Sauvignon Olive Hill Estate, and the new-to-the-market SyrCab. The cost for the cheese tasting and dinner is just $50 per person, all inclusive. It will start with a reception at 6:30 p.m., and sitting down to cheese and dinner at 7p.m. Call us for reservations at 561-5233.

Posted by johnston at 11:11 PM

February 12, 2007

In retrospect: The Dilly Deli

The Mariemontbuzz.com is honored to have the opportunity to share information and achievements regarding many of the village district's businesses to the rest of the Cincinnati-area. In response to the Dilly Deli's recent global success, here is an erstwhile story on the vilalge bar/eatery the mariemontbuzz.com conducted several months ago.

The wine list rangs from Shafers, Leaping Lizard, Ty Caton and Toasted Herd to Bishop’s Peak, Iron Horse, Conundrum and Cha Cha. Throw in bottles of Barefoot, Erik’s, The Red Toad Hollow and Red Dirt Red and you have only begun to skim the surface of the vast array of wines available at the Dilly Deli.

A customer would have an easier time mapping the stars in the night sky than conducting an inventory on all the brands of beer also on sale.

So it is no coincidence that the Dilly Deli was named amongst the Top 50 beer bars in the country by BeerAdvocate.com, the only establishment in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana to be recognized.

But to call the Mariemont business a “bar” is a misnomer; it is actually an aggregate of a beer, wine, retail store and restaurant, catering to all people of all ages.

“The Dilly Deli is able to draw people to its uniqueness and garners us the recognition of having a good reputation with the customers,” Chuck Warinner, who along with his wife, Robbie, own the establishment, said.

Located 6818 Wooster Pike and adjacent the patio of The Strand, the Dilly Deli was among the first tenants to set up shop in the renovated building in 1996. Approximately 16 months ago Chuck and Robbie added the wine room which now has an ingress and egress facing Wooster Pike. It has been in business in Cincinnati for almost 20 years.

Asked what the best wine available at the Dilly Deli is, both owners shrug their shoulders.

“They all appeal to different people,” Chuck said, adding there many variables involved in a person’s opinion of a good wine and a finer wine. “Basically, it may depend on what type of day it is, the company you are with, the meal you are eating, the weather, your mood ... and so on.”

Ultimately, no matter how confident a person is on their cognizance of wine and its finer qualities, the learning process never ceases.

“We deal with over 20 wine and beer representatives a week. The education is continuous,” Robbie said.

“You can never say you know all there is to know about wine because it changes every year,” Chuck adds.

Like many people with a thirst for becoming a wine conneoisseur, Chuck and Robbie had to start from the beginning.

The two of them did not possess any prior knowledge of wine until they became business owners.

"We just had to start asking questions, studying, tasting, experimenting ..." Chuck said.

The two of them met in college and dated five years before marrying. Chuck was studying to become an engineer and wanted to pursue a career working with the river industry.

"The river industry was undergoing huge recession. I compare my situation to that of an aspiring actor living in Los Angeles," he said, "working in various restaurants just to pay the bills."

Working in restaurants was the foundation that would lead to a revised vocation.

"When this business went up for sale, the two of us decided to purchase," Chuck said. "I guess you can say we were embarked on a certain course."

DYK: The most expensive bottle of wine presently available at the Dilly Deli is regular-sized bottle of “100 Acre Cabernet” for $269.

Robbie said she and Chuck take pride in the fact that every bottle of wine sold at the Dilly Deli is marked up only $4 from its retail price.

DyalsoK: The absolutely most expensive bottle of wine you can purchase from the Dilly Deli is “Domain Romacee-Centi” for $3,300. That bottle of wine, however, is not located within the store; it must be ordered.

With the advent of Spring and Summer’s warm weather, the patio outside the Dilly Deli will be open Wednesday, April 27. There is also live music every Friday and Saturday, ranging from jazz to folk to Celtic and anywhere from solo performances to four-piece ensembles.

For more information on the Dilly Deli, visit their Web site at dillydeli.com or call 561-5233 for more details.

Posted by johnston at 01:47 PM

January 31, 2007

How long before we can chant "We're No. 1"?

The news just keeps getting better and better for Dilly Deli owners Chuck and Robbie Warriner. It won't be long before they start handing out large foam hands with the pointing finger raised to the sky stating "We're No. 1!"

"Beer seems to attract the kind of folks who love to tell their friends about us, and we thank them for that," the Warriners said. That is because RateBeer.com has just released their newly generated list of the 100 Best Beer Retailers in the World -- and the Dilly Deli is ranked number 12. Over the past few years, the Dilly Deli has been slowly rising on the list. This recent ranking is their highest mark to date.

These ratings are user generated; that is, the people who have been to the Dilly get online and rate the establishment for selection, service, ambiance, etc.

The numbers go into the cruncher and the list is revealed. Ohio in particular, and the Midwest in general, is well represented on the list.

"We must enjoy our beer around here to support so many fine retailers," the owners said. Yet the list is worldwide in scope - the top three are in Florida, Denmark and Massachusetts.

What sets the Dilly Deli apart from the other fine, popular establishments located in the Tri-State?

" Well, there aren't many places where you can shop such a high quality selection while at the same time actually enjoying a cold tasty beer, and in some states, that is actually forbidden," according to the Warriners. "Not to mention the food, the patio, our lovely little Village of Mariemont and our in-house peeps that take care of you! We may not carry everything -- heck, we'd need ten times more room -- but what we do carry is chosen because we think it is excellent."

Posted by johnston at 01:35 PM

January 29, 2007

Last minute shoppers can still get great deals

This is your last chance to check out the stellar deals Sara Benjamin's has on her outgoing Falll and Winter attire.

Shoppers can save up to 50 to 70 percent off the original price on clothing.

Posted by johnston at 12:48 PM

Shop Around the Corner is definately growing

The Shop Around the Corner is expanding, both in size and inventory. By March 5, the home decor store will be ready to show off its new look, which will include bedding, tabletop and kitchen items, stationary, cards and giftwrap, to name a few.

The renovations will have no impact on the shop's hours and availability.

For those of you who have not visitied The Shop Around the Corner, you must take some time and take a good look around the store.

Upon first entering the store, your first reaction is, Wow, it looks very nice and comforting and homey in here.

And, well, that is to be expected because the store is filled with items meant to decorate the interior of your home.

The Shop Around The Corner located at 6816 Wooster Pike in The Strand, neighboring Eastern Hills Dry Cleaners.

For owner Tiffany Richardson, this home decor store is something she has long aspired to open.

“I possess an appreciation for nice things. Everything in this store is something I would put in my house or give as a gift,” Richardson said.

To begin to explain the eclectic variety and enormity of the home decor merchandise would be an exhausting read. But imagine a store redolent with the fragrance of aromatic candles, colorful upholstered furniture, ornate wall hangings, a variety of end tables, lamp stands and tables, an array of items to fill your China cabinet and a myriad of other enticing and inviting pieces of eye candy and fine, well-crafted pieces.

Customers will see a well-mannered Golden Retriever/Labrador dog named Banx curled up in its comfy bed beside the checkout counter. The one-year old comes to work with Richardson every day.

“I am from the south,” explains Richardson, “so the store also has a southern feel.”

The store is a place where people can garner new ideas for their homes, somewhere they can take a piece of fine decoration home with them that will brighten the mood.

In order to fill the store, she conducts a great deal of research, reads books and magazines and travels quite a bit to collect ideas for her customers.

The Shop Around The Corner opened March 31. Richardson chose Mariemont to open her shop because the village seemed a good fit for her and her personality. “My brother also lived here 10 years ago and I became familiar with the village. There is a lot of opportunity here for a retailer because this area offers more than one shopping destination.”

For more information, call the store at 271-5777 or e-mail trechardson@cinci.rr.com

Posted by johnston at 12:34 PM

January 22, 2007

Wine tasting at the Dilly Deli this weekend

Be sure to visit the Dilly Deli this Saturday, Jan. 27, for another one of their popular "wine tastings" from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Cutting Edge Selections, a premium wholesaler, is the featured guest, and there will be several cool wines, all from way south of here, including:

Crios de Susana Balbo 2006 Torrontes -- a highly aromatic and refreshing white wine that has become, like Malbec in red wines, an Argentine specialty. $15.99

Alpha Domus 2005 Viognier -- Viognier, when it's made well, is fabulous, and usually somewhat expensive because the vine is rather capricious and expensive to grow. This New Zealand version is outstanding, and far cheaper than anyone present at our Holiday tasting guessed. And it lasts for five days open. $21.99

Calcu 2005 Red Wine -- Some of you may have tried this Chilean red, it's an incredible wine for the money. A "Super-Chilean" blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carmenere. $12.99

Posted by johnston at 03:48 PM

January 15, 2007

Through the Camera Eye of Robert Flischel

During the early 1980s Robert Flischel received a phone call from TIME magazine asking him to shoot some photographs of a 100-year old woman who just completed a novel that had taken her 50 years to write.

The woman was only allowing one press conference - in Xenia, Ohio - so there wouldn’t be a second opportunity. Flischel was contemplating whether or not he wanted to accept the job since it was so spontaneous.

“If you are a photographer, then you to do photography,” Flischel said, “you just have to keep plugging away.”

So he made the trip. The piece ran in TIME magazine and was subsequently picked up by LIFE magazine. LIFE added Flischel’s photos to its “Pictures of the Year” edition.

He said that particular shoot resulted in one of the most intriguing he has ever done.

That, and the time he had the opportunity to photograph boxing middle-weight world champion Aaron Prior. He was given five minutes to get whatever photos he needed - with the champ’s bodyguard aiming a gun at him and holding back a Doberman Pincer.

Flischel said it was then he learned the valued ability of shooting photographs fast and capturing the moment.

Flischel is the proprietor of Robert Flischel Photography, located at 6820 Wooster Pike in Mariemont on the second story of The Strand.

He was the second tenant to locate to the new building shortly after it was renovated nearly 10 years ago.

Flischel had been operating his studio on 6th Street in downtown Cincinnati.

“My wife and I would drive out (to Mariemont) a lot and I would see workers working on The Strand. There were these cows out front (sculpted pieces of work) and I thought ‘This would be a great place to relocate, an ideal place for me’.”

“And it has turned out that way.”

The interior of his studio is a vivid, vibrant introspective and retrospective look of Greater Cincinnati, his walls inundated with a myriad of photos ranging from architectural structures, parks, neighborhoods and faces of people which devise “... the fragile fabric of history” that gives the city its character.

He has published several books, including “Perspectives Cincinnati: The Towers Perrin Collection”, “Then and Now: Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky”, “New Bremen”, “An Expression of the Community: Cincinnati Public Schools Legacy of Art”, and “Cincinnati Illuminated: A Photographic Journey”.

Award-winning documentary film writer and director Ken Burns called “An Expression of the Community” “... right on target and just the kind of thing our distracted, diverse cities need.”

Flischel has been photographing since 1971 and bought his first camera from Barry Lefton of Provident Camera. It was a Mamiya Sekor DTL 500 on sale for $129.95. He persuaded his brother Leo to help load the film and went to photograph the Tyler Davidson Fountain, which at the time was celebrating its 100th birthday.

Prior to becoming a photographer, Flischel was doing social work. He didn’t want to pursue a career in social work any further and decided he would purchase a camera.

“I got a government grant to document other artists who were also receiving government grants. Thirty-two years later, two stops on my photographic journey remain constant ... Fountain Square and Provident Camera,” he said.

Flischel graduated from Xavier University in 1971. He studied photography under Kazik Pazovski and credits his “clean, direct style” to Pazovski’s influence.

For more information on Robert Flischel, call 271-3113 or e-mail rafphoto@fuse.net
To view some of his work, visit RobertFlischel.com

Posted by johnston at 08:42 PM

December 22, 2006

Dilly Deli celebrating the holidays. Don't miss out!

What's on tap the Dilly Deli for the holidays? Let's take a close look:

First, the holiday hours. The Dilly Deli will be open their regular hours 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday thru Thursday and 10 a.m. -11 p.m. Friday and Saturday except for

Christmas Eve--Closed (always closed on Sunday)
Christmas Day--Closed
New Year's Eve--Closed (Sunday)
New Year's Day--Closed
New Year's Day plus One--Closed

Chef Eric's Weekend Specials keep getting finer -- keep the Dilly Deli in your sights for dinner this weekend before Christmas.

Appetizers
Maple-Bourbon Smoked Duck Breast Crostini
Crab & Avocado Salad

Entrees
Roasted Rabbit over wild mushroom risotto finished with truffle cheese

Braised Lamb Shank with root vegetables and roasted garlic mashed potatoes

Spiced Brined Double-Rib Pork Chop grilled and topped with caramelized onions preserves served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes

Swordfish Provencal sauteed and served over gnocchi with kalamata olives, roma tomatoes & red onion in a saffron shellfish broth

Champagne for New Years!

The Dilly Deli has Krug 1988 Champagne available. According to the owners:
"The world's most prestigious Champagne--even more so than Dom Perignon--is Krug. Fortunately that's not just bluster: it is haunting, majestic, fathomless wine that will leave an impression long after you've finished it. The first time I had this wine, I felt as though I had just walked into my mom's kitchen after a too-long absence: familiar surroundings with wonderful new smells"

Also be sure to check out these wines!
Arietta 2002 Hudson H Block
Axios 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Dunn 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Pahlmeyer 2003 Red Wine
Ridge 2002 Monte Bello
Robert Foley 2004 Claret
Rombauer 2000 Diamond Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (Just released yesterday!)
Sea Smoke Pinot Noirs "Southing" and "Ten"
Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon (many vintages!)
Spottswoode 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Terre Rouge 2002 Syrah "Ascent"

And Magnums!
Pine Ridge Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon
Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon
Summit Lake Cabernet Sauvignon (in a beautifully etched bottle)

And, of course, plenty of Montrachet, glorious Red Burgundies and Brunellos, and such perennial faves as Kistler, Silver Oak, Far Niente, and Caymus.

Posted by johnston at 05:04 PM

December 19, 2006

Clock is ticking for last minute holiday gift

Heileman & Co. Jewelers, located in The Strand across from Starbucks and adjacent to The Dilly Deli, is now offering 20 to 30 percent off all of their watches, just in time for the holiday season and new year.

The jeweler has a wide variety of watches by Maurice Licroix. The sale runs through mid-January; there are also other running specials on pieces of jewelry periodically throughout the year. Call the jeweler at 561-3310 for more information.

Posted by johnston at 12:38 PM

December 06, 2006

A great Christmas gift ... if ya need one

Christmas is approaching fast.

If you are looking for a gift for someone, how about the royal treatment from Eva's Esthetica.

The village's spa has many holiday gift packages that will definately bring delight to anyone looking for a relaxing getaway.

Gift Packages

Relaxation package 2.5 hours $180.00

Aromatherapy facial
Foot Reflexology
Aromatherapy full body massage

Rejuvenating package 2.5 hours $180.00

Anti-aging facial
Detoxifying body treatment (with seaweed body mask)
OR
Anti-Stress body treatment

Body and Soul package 3.00 hours $200.00

European Facial
Salt-glo body treatment
Aromatherapy full body massage

Stay beautiful 2.5 hours $172.00

Spa pedicure
Spa manicure
Anti-aging facial

Special occasion 2.5 hours $155.00

Mini facial
Spa pedicure
Spa manicure
Make-up application

Spa facial – skin analysis, deep pore cleansing, toning, and exfoliation, massage of the face, neck, shoulders, hands and feet.

Body treatment – provide a stress relieving experience for the mind and body.

Spa pedicure / manicure – includes special exfoliation, mask and paraffin dip of feet.

Foot reflexology – massaging the points on the foot to advance your sense of well being and comfort.

Posted by johnston at 12:59 AM

December 05, 2006

Fashion show for village shop

Sara Benjamin's, Mariemont's women's boutique, will be hosting a fashion show called "Girlfriend Get-togethers" at the Cincinnati Art Museum. The fahion show, which will be offering tips on holiday fashion and will include makeup and manicure tips, will start at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 13. Wine and refreshments will be available. For more information, you can visit www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

The boutique will also have extended holiday hours starting Monday, Dec. 18 - 23 which will be 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The boutique will be open Christmas Eve from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Posted by johnston at 12:05 PM

The Party is on Wednesday

Barrel House Beer Party
Wednesday December 6 from 5 p.m to 9 p.m.

At last, a beer party for our hometown brewery. The Dilly Deli's popular beer events come all the way from the west coast to Liberty Street, home to their very own Barrel House Brewing Co. Joining the deli Wednesday night here in Mariemont will be Barrel House founding Brewmaster Rick DeBar. He'll be presenting the new release of the Belgian Winter Ale, both on draft and in bottle. Also on tap will be Boss Cox Double Dark IPA, the mighty mighty Scotch Ale, and a special Cask-Conditioned Ale.

The Belgian Winter Ale is the first seasonal, and only the fifth Barrel House beer to be bottled Also joining the party will be Winter Ale label artist Jim Effler. He'll have prints available for signing, framing, and ... gift giving! Come on by Wednesday evening, shoulder your way into the crowd (make some new friends on the way), and hoist a pint or two of Cincinnati's own microbrewery.

Posted by johnston at 12:22 AM

October 24, 2006

Here's a fitness head's up

Just a head's up for anyone thinking of getting in shape: Have you been sitting around, ruminating on how you aren’t getting any younger and that your body isn’t getting any fitter? Sure, expensive gyms may not be your milieu, zealous trainers may not be your favorite people, and watching fitness DVDs in front of your TV may not be how your want to utilize your living room.

But it is time to challenge yourself and have fun while doing it and The Travel Authority is offering vacation packages that might be the answer.

The Third annual SHAPE and Men’s Fitness “Mind/Body Cruise” aboard Carnival Glory will be weighting anchor Dec. 2nd to the 9th, 2006.

It is an exclusive cruise to the Western Caribbean. Experts from SHAPE and Men’s Fitness Magazine will be on board to conduct complete mind and body programs.

You can sign up alone, as a couple, or with a group of friends, and while learning how to change your life from being out-of0shape to being in great shape, you will experience everything a fun ship cruise has to offer. You will start from Port Canaveral and head to Key West, Belize City and to Costa Maya, Mexico.
It is a seven day cruise starting at $739.

For more information, visit the The Travel Authority/American Express office at 6800 Wooster Pike or call 272-2887, fax 272-4355 or toll free (1-888)853-7448.

You may also visit http://www.TheTravelAuthority.com

Posted by johnston at 08:36 PM

October 17, 2006

Check your daily planner!

Here are a few items that you might want to etch into your schedule.

The Dilly Deli is hosting the Arcadia Brewing Party Wednesday, Oct. 25, with Arcadia President Tim Suprise. Fresh on the heels of Arcadia's Big Beer Series Release Party in Battle Creek the previous weekend, visitors to the village eatery will be the first people in the Ohio with a chance to taste Arcadia's new beers.

"There will be, we're told, a Barleywine, an Old Ale, a Triple Chocolate Stout, and a new release of Hopmouth IPA," the owners said.

And then the Dilly Deli's Annual Holiday Winetasting will be Sunday Dec. 3. "Don't worry, Bengals fans, there's no conflict - the Bengals will have defeated the Ravens the previous Thursday night," jokes the owners. Mark your calendars and book that babysitter now. Details will be forthcoming.

Posted by johnston at 02:22 PM

October 04, 2006

Nothing comes for free ... except your Internet

Here is some fun information for you: Mariemont's Village Square and The Strand now have wireless Internet connection.

And the best part of it is that the service is free. It doesn't cost the villagers or anyone who wants to use it a penny.

Part of a project called Project LilyPad, the service is meant to "give back" to Cincinnati residents. Wireless locales are being set up all over the Tri-State in what is being classified as population hot spots.

Project Lily Pad, in conjunction with Time Warner Cable, installed two access points – small devices the size of a pizza box with rabbit ear antennas – on top of Graters and the Mariemont Inn. The business owners expressed interest in having the free service, which would serve all village citizens, businesses and Internet users in the area.

The service is free of cost because it is paid for by corporate sponsors solicited and retained by Lily Pad. Also, Lily Pad is responsible for all devices, project and sponsorship maintenance. The service is maintained by volunteers, too.

“The goal is to provide hot spots throughout the Cincinnati,” so that eventually free Internet access will be provided almost everywhere, according to Lily Pad volunteer Dan Barford.

“Using a PC or a PDA, users can access information while sitting on a bench in the park, walking down the street or while dining at a local restaurant. All for free … no strings attached,” according to the Lily Pad Web site, http://lilypadusa.org/index.html

Lily Pad Web sites and signage will promote the area as a free wireless zone and recognize sponsors, enabling them to promote their products to users and inquirers. The tax-deductible sponsorship will cover costs of installation, data access, maintenance, and marketing of the Lily Pad.

Posted by johnston at 12:47 PM

September 20, 2006

Foris Winery Dinner filling up

People should set aside some time for the Dilly Deli's upcoming Foris Winery Dinner on Tuesday, Oct. 3.

Foris Winery is in Oregon south in the Rogue Valley with it's own wine and vineyard.

Special guest Julianne Allen from the winery, who will tell patrons how founder and visionary Ted Gerber came to be the first to plant vineyards in those parts back in 1976.

Foris makes a full range of wines, including Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet and Merlot, as well as Pinot Noir.

Chef Eric Vice and our Foris rep Denise Sullivan (also a chef) are tasting the wines and developing another memorable meal. Recent wine dinners have sold out, "and with the buzz still buzzing don't get caught short on this one" the owners said.

Space is limited, reserve your spot now by return e-mail or by calling 561-5233. The reception starts at 6:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 7 p.m. Cist us $75 per person, all inclusive.

Posted by johnston at 01:40 PM

September 18, 2006

Starbucks will re-open in 2 weeks

Villagers who have made a habit of quenching their daily java fix by patronizing the Mariemont Starbucks located in The Strand will be inconvenienced -- but not for long.

The Mariemont Starbucks closed down temporarily Sept. 17.

It will re-open at 5:30 a.m. Oct. 2, and when regulars re-enter the coffee shop they will notice a great many changes.

According to Shane Rayford, district manager of Starbucks Coffee Co., the coffee shop will be refitted with bar seating, mosaic tiling, new furniture, a whole new color scheme, new counter tops and new light fixtures.

"The shop will look really new," Rayford said.

These types of make-overs are typical when a location has been open for approximately 10 years, he said. The Mariemont shop has been open since February 1996.

Posted by johnston at 03:15 PM

September 06, 2006

Sara Benjamin's update

Sara Benjamins is hosting a final spring and summer sale sale and all the mark-downs are from $9 to $139 off merchandise, or approximately 75 percent off the original price.

The boutique is located beside The Dilly Deli within The Strand on Wooster Pike. For more information, call the shop at 272-2280.

Posted by johnston at 12:10 PM

Top Drawer updates

The Top Drawer is hosting a trunk show for the month of September. All visitors will be able to inspect and purchase the designs of Elizabeth Turner and her canvasses which will allow them to stitch purses, shoes and belts.

And if your need a good holiday gift idea or just want something to help decorate for Thanksgiving, The Top Drawer is offering a class on October 21. The cost is $160 and all attendees will learn myriad decorative stitches and styles, "and you will have a cute little dimensional Thanksgiving house," owner Sandy McKee said.

The Top Drawer is located beside the side entrance of the National Exemplar. For more information, call 271-6691.

Posted by johnston at 12:01 PM

August 11, 2006

Wine list one of the best

It just keeps getting better for the Dilly Deli.

Owners Chuck and Robbie Werriner recently learned the Dilly Deli was selected as possessing one of the finest wine lists in the world by Wine Spectator Magazine, a publication dedicated to identifying the highest dining quality the world has to offer.

"We can't claim exclusivity," Chuck said, adding there were 2,995 winners world-wide of the "Award of Excellence", including 15 located in the Greater Cincinnati area.

In addition to the award, the Dilly Deli's listing in the magazine is highlighted in green, signifying exceptionally good value ... to expatiate, it means there are very few places where you can find the quality, depth and breadth in a wine selection offered by the Dilly Deli.

Needless to say, the owners are proud to provide such excellent service to the village of Mariemont and to the Tri-State area.

And to make such news just a tad sweeter, BeerAdvocate.com - which rates the best beer retailers in the country - has raised the Dilly Deli's rank from 46th best beer bar in America to #16.

Oh, and AOL CitySearch rated the Dilly Deli the second best outdoor dining experience in Cincinnati -- right behind Mariemont's own Quarter Bistro.

For more information on the Dilly Deli, visit the eatery at 6818 Wooster Pike or call 561-9463.

Posted by johnston at 01:30 PM

August 04, 2006

"Passport Day" may offer some help

Starting December 31, 2006, a passport will be required for all air and sea travel to or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda.

The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 requires that by January 1, 2008, all travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada must have a passport or other secure, accepted document to enter or re-enter the United States.

But as many travelers know, getting your passport may be a little confusing.

“Normally you can go to a post office that handles passports and get them there, but a lot of people don’t know the process,” Gail Carpenter, manager of The Travel Authority Inc./American Express in Mariemont, said.

To help people through the passport ordeal, the village Travel Authority Inc./American Express branch will be hosting “Passsport Day” Aug. 29, 2006. Representatives of the Butler and Hamilton County Clerk of Courts will be in the office to help travelers obtain new passports.

“This will be easy. You will fill out an application, get a photograph, and it costs the same. We are just providing a public service,” Carpenter said. Total costs will be $104 and the passport is valid for 10 years.

What to bring:
• a certified, state issued birth certificate
• current driver’s license
• expired passports, if applicable
• cash, check or money order payable to Butler County clerk of courts for $37 per person (includes fee for passport photos taken)
• cash, check or money order payable to U.S. Department of State for $67 per person 16 years and older ($52 per person 15 years and younger)
• appropriate passport photo attire

For more information regarding the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

And for more information regarding “Passport Day”, contact Gail Carpenter, Manager The Travel Authority Inc./American Express 6800 Wooster Pike Cincinnati, OH 45227 (513) 272-2887 fax (513)272-4355 toll free (1-888)853-7448.

Posted by johnston at 12:41 PM

August 01, 2006

Travel Authority offering two packages

The Travel Authority/American Express office in Mariemont has a couple voyages for people to check out. The first is a cruise to the Mediterranean, the second a Mind and Body cruise.

Let’s start first in the Mediterranean. The Royal Caribbean International cruise line is taking people on a seven night boat ride October 14-21, 2006, starting in Barcelona, Spain. From there voyagers will travel to Maseilles, France, to Villefrancho, around to Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy, visit Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, and head to Naples, head back out to sea and wind up back in the ports of Barcelona.

While on board, people will have at their disposal an ice-skating rink, rock-climbing wall, in-line skating, the Royal Promenade, Johnny Rockets, Portofino Italian Restaurant, themed bars and lounges, Casino Royale, golf simulators, a nine-hole miniature golf course, Adventure Ocean youth facilities, ShipShape Day Spa & Fitness Center, and a full-sized basketball court. Prices start from $895.

And there’s the mind and body cruise.

Have you been sitting around, ruminating on how your aren’t getting any younger and that your body isn’t getting any fitter? Sure, expensive gyms may not be your milieu, zealous trainers may not be your favorite people, and watching fitness DVDs in front of your TV may not be how your want to utilize your living room.

But it is time to challenge yourself and have fun while doing it and The Travel Authority is offering vacation packages that might be the answer.

The Third annual SHAPE and Men’s Fitness “Mind/Body Cruise” aboard Carnival Glory will be weighting anchor Dec. 2nd to the 9th, 2006.

It is an exclusive cruise to the Western Caribbean. Experts from SHAPE and Men’s Fitness Magazine will be on board to conduct complete mind and body programs.

You can sign up alone, as a couple, or with a group of friends, and while learning how to change your life from being out-of0shape to being in great shape, you will experience everything a fun ship cruise has to offer. You will start from Port Canaveral and head to Key West, Belize City and to Costa Maya, Mexico.
It is a seven day cruise starting at $739.

For more information, visit the The Travel Authority/American Express office at 6800 Wooster Pike or call 272-2887, fax 272-4355 or toll free (1-888)853-7448.

You may also visit http://www.TheTravelAuthority.com

Posted by johnston at 04:06 PM

July 16, 2006

Shop closed until August

The Shop Around The Corner, one of Mariemont's newest businesses, will be closed from July 15 to July 31 for a market trip. It is during these trips that owner Tiffany Richardson travels in search of new ideas for her store. For those who have already visited the store, located in The Strand beside Eastern Hills Dry Cleaning, they know the store is fraught with fine and upscale home decor merchandise.

The store will re-open August 1 with new fall merchandise. For more information, call 271-5777.

Posted by johnston at 03:00 PM

July 14, 2006

Saturday Wine Tasting July 15--1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dilly Deli

A new wine will be available for tasting on Saturday July 15. According to Dilly Deli co-owner Robbie Warriner, Hofer's Gruener Veltliner "Freiberg" has an exotic, robust scent and is very long on flavor, "and it just glows."

Also on the docket for tomorrow is a wine from a superb grape called Scheurebe (SHOY-ray-buh) from Dr. Deinhard.

"Speaking of exotic," she continues, " it has notes of grilled fennel, kiwi, and hyssop, with a superb intricacy and a classy overtone of lavender. Many red wine drinkers gravitate to Scheurebe because it possesses some red wine characteristics (black currant aromas and flavors are chief among them), so if you generally eschew white wine, give this one a try. We'll also try (together, as we haven't had it yet, either) the new vintage of Castello di Ama Rosato, named Italy's best rosé by the Italian wine magazine Gambero Rosso, and despite the accolade, the price is still the same as last year.

"And lastly, a thoroughly singular wine called Razon, a delicious red from Spain. It is not from a region of note, but when you taste it, you will wonder that it is famous, because it is good ... and a bargain. Perhaps it's better that it doesn't hail from a famous region--it would cost $10 more."

Posted by johnston at 06:04 PM

July 11, 2006

A brief look ahead

On Tuesday, July 18, from 4 p.m. - close, the Dilly Deli will have a special beer party with Great Lakes Brewery. There will also be a few special items, though, apparently, exactly what is planned is for visitor's eyes only. But, there will definitely be the brewmaster and lots of beer, so don't miss it.

And ...

A planned wine dinner is scheduled for Tuesday, August 22, featuring the Fess Parker Winery, an outstanding central coast California winery with a long track record of great wines and that classy 'coon skin cap on the label. "Chef Eric has tasted the wines and, sure as eggs is eggs, will concoct a magnificent dinner to go with them," Dilly Deli owners said.

Posted by johnston at 02:26 PM

June 30, 2006

Season sale Around the Corner

The Shop Around The Corner will be having an end of season sale beginning July 5th until July 14th.

Customers will find myriad home decor items marked down.

The Shop is the newest addition to the business district of Mariemont, located at 6816 Wooster Pike in The Strand, neighboring Eastern Hills Dry Cleaners.

For more information, call the store at 271-5777 or e-mail trechardson@cinci.rr.com

Posted by johnston at 02:06 PM

Dinner specials for June 30 thru July 2

Be sure to check out the village eatery specials for the weekend of June June 30 to July 2.

Mio’s specials:

Mashed Potato Pizza
Served with red onions, cheddar cheese, regular cheese,
mozzarella and bacon
Small - $6.17 Medium - $11.27 Large - $13.67

Turkey and Ham Club
Served with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise and bacon
Small - $4.49 Large - $6.39

Tortellini Florentine
Served with tri-colored tortellini, Alfredo sauce
and smothered in spinach cheese $8.99

Be sure to check out one of these entrees from the Dilly Deli’s new menu:

Maryland-Style Crab Cake
Three pan-seared crab cakes served
with remoulade sauce, sauteed basmati
rice, grilled asparagus and slaw $14

Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillet
An eight ounce grilled fillet, served with
basmati rice & vegetable $16
- brown butter-lemon caper sauce
- pesto cream sauce or lemon dill sauce

Fish & Chips
Batter fried Pollack fillet(s) served with
seasoned French fries & slaw
Two piece $12 One piece $9

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan
Grilled sliced eggplant, topped with
Provolone, Parmesan and marinara sauce,
served with fresh egg fettuccine $11

Sesame Encrusted Ahi Tuna
Sauteed, served rare with wasabi aioli
and soy reduction over a risotto cake
with vegetables $17

Grilled Ribeye Steak
Hand-cut fifteen ounce ribeye topped
with Worcestershire reduction, bacon &
onions served with roasted garlic mashed
potatoes and vegetable $19

Pork Scaloppini
Three sauteed boneless loin chops
served with cream caper sauce, roasted garlic
mashed potatoes and vegetable $13

At the National Exemplar:

Lake Walleye
Pan seared, cornmeal crusted, mandarin orange cranberry compote.
Served with garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus $18.95

Veal Piccata
Milk fed medallions sauteed in garlic, white wine, capers,
lemon and a veal demi. Served with rice medley, green beans and mushrooms $18.95

Pasta
Linguini tossed with shrimp, crimini mushrooms, Roma tomatoes,
spinach, garlic, basil and lemon cream $19.95

Posted by johnston at 02:01 PM

June 21, 2006

Sara Benjamin's hosting summer sale

Beginning Friday, June 23, Sara Benjamin’s will having a sale of 30 percent to 50 percent off all their spring and summer merchandise.

The sale will cover many styles by numerous designers, such as Anna Fui, Joe’s Jeans, Adam + Eve, Joystick, Burning Torch, True Religion, Paige Denim, G1, Splendid, Velvet and others.

The clothing boutique’s hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday thru Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, call the store at 272-2280. Sara Benjamin’s is located in The Strand next to the Dilly Deli and Starbucks.

Posted by johnston at 05:02 PM

Recent fund-raiser helps village foundation

It can only be positive when people within the community join resources to help each other.

Such was the case when the Dilly Deli recently held a fund-raiser for the Mariemont Preservation Foundation. The village’s local bar and eatery hosted a wine tasting event and donated all the proceeds to the MPF, which strives to maintain the village’s historic integrity.

Approximately 60 people attended the event to sample Argentinean wines on the open-air patio outside of the Dilly Deli at The Strand.

Food and refreshments were also provided by the Dilly Deli and Whitestone cheese by Natural & Organic Imports.

Here are some photos of the event with some of the people who attended.

For more information on the Dilly Deli call 561-5233.

Posted by johnston at 04:36 PM

June 14, 2006

A new shop is just around the corner

Upon first entering the store, your first reaction is, Wow, it looks very nice and comforting and homey in here.

And, well, that is to be expected because the store is filled with items meant to decorate the interior of your home.

The Shop Around The Corner is the newest addition to the business district of Mariemont, located at 6816 Wooster Pike in The Strand, neighboring Eastern Hills Dry Cleaners.

For owner Tiffany Richardson, this home decor store is something she has long aspired to open.

“I possess an appreciation for nice things. Everything in this store is something I would put in my house or give as a gift,” Richardson said.

To begin to explain the eclectic variety and enormity of the home decor merchandise would be an exhausting read. But imagine a store redolent with the fragrance of aromatic candles, colorful upholstered furniture, ornate wall hangings, a variety of end tables, lamp stands and tables, an array of items to fill your China cabinet and a myriad of other enticing and inviting pieces of eye candy and fine, well-crafted pieces.

Customers will see a well-mannered Golden Retriever/Labrador dog named Banx curled up in its comfy bed beside the checkout counter. The one-year old comes to work with Richardson every day.

“I am from the south,” explains Richardson, “so the store also has a southern feel.”

The store is a place where people can garner new ideas for their homes, somewhere they can take a piece of fine decoration home with them that will brighten the mood.

In order to fill the store, she conducts a great deal of research, reads books and magazines and travels quite a bit to collect ideas for her customers.

The Shop Around The Corner opened March 31. Richardson chose Mariemont to open her shop because the village seemed a good fit for her and her personality. “My brother also lived here 10 years ago and I became familiar with the village. There is a lot of opportunity here for a retailer because this area offers more than one shopping destination.”

For more information, call the store at 271-5777 or e-mail trechardson@cinci.rr.com

Posted by johnston at 03:12 PM

June 01, 2006

Weekend specials for June 2 thru June 4

Be sure to check out this weekend’s lunch and dinner specials at Mariemont’s eateries:.
At the National Exemplar, located within the Mariemont Inn:

Soft Shell Crab with cornmeal crusted, spicy plum sauce for $6.95

Gulf Grouper, broiled, with Vera Cruz style, garlic mashed potatoes, snow peas
and mushrooms for $20.95

Chicken Marsala; a boneless Amish breast sautéed with
mushrooms, red peppers and Marsala cream, rice medley and grilled asparagus
for $18.95

Jambalaya Pasta; a linguine tossed with shrimp, chicken, andouille
celery, onions, peppers and tomatoes in a spicy creole sauce
for $18.95

The Dilly Deli has a new menu! Items include many of the most popular sides and dishes people have come to love at the Dilly Deli along with a new recipes for pastas, a grilled porta bella mushroom "burger", a salmon burger, and the smoked salmon club.

Posted by johnston at 11:52 PM

May 27, 2006

June 1 marks important wine tasting

These events are always fun. All you have to do is RSVP and you are plugged in to the club.

Italian winemaker Albino Rocca will host the Dilly Deli's upcoming Thursday, June 1, wine tasting. The Dilly Deli, located at The Strand next to Starbucks and Sara Benjamin's, has made a name for themselves as one of the best bars in America and for their regular wine tasting gatherings.

According to the owners, in the northwest of Italy there is a place known as Piedmont which is teeming with great wines and great producers. "Albino Rocca is among the top 1 percent and he is coming here to show us how great his wines are," owner Robbie Warinner said.

Rocca is famous for his Barbaresco wines, because Barbaresco is deemed "important" by the wine press, however this causes the pundits to miss his other wines.

"That is a shame, as he is highly esteemed by his peers and Italian wine aficianados for outstanding wines made from Barbera, Chardonnay, and Cortese, as well as a fabulous Rosso that has no business being as cheap as it is," Warinner said.

The tasting costs $25, and gets you plenty of food, and will run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30p.m. Call 871-4825 or send an e-mail to reserve your spot.

Posted by johnston at 02:38 PM

May 22, 2006

Get tanned, get in shape

Have you been sitting around, ruminating on how your aren’t getting any younger and that your body isn’t getting any fitter? Sure, expensive gyms may not be your milieu, zealous trainers may not be your favorite people, and watching fitness DVDs in front of your TV may not be how your want to utilize your living room.

But it is time to challenge yourself and have fun while doing it and The Travel Authority is offering vacation packages that might be the answer.

The Third annual SHAPE and Men’s Fitness “Mind/Body Cruise” aboard Carnival Glory will be weighting anchor Dec. 2nd to the 9th, 2006.

It is an exclusive cruise to the Western Caribbean. Experts from SHAPE and Men’s Fitness Magazine will be on board to conduct complete mind and body programs.

You can sign up alone, as a couple, or with a group of friends, and while learning how to change your life from being out-of0shape to being in great shape, you will experience everything a fun ship cruise has to offer. You will start from Port Canaveral and head to Key West, Belize City and to Costa Maya, Mexico.

It is a seven day cruise starting at $739.

Make your reservations by stopping in to The Travel Authority, 6800 Wooster Pike, in Mariemont. You can also visit their site at www.TheTravelAuthority.com/destinations

Posted by johnston at 01:04 PM

May 12, 2006

Don't miss this weekend at the Dilly Deli

Memorial Day Weekend Sale

Mark your calendar. Thursday, May 25th through Saturday, May 27th, the Dilly Deli will be offering an array of wines for terrific discount prices and you can take an additional discount at the register when you buy a case or more. The owners have picked out a number of cherries from around the world and worked out a deal with their suppliers that will allow them to offer exclusive low-pricing and a 20 percent discount by the case.

There will also be a wiine tasting this Saturday

The tastings in each of the last two weeks have been quite successful, and this week there are some special wines on hand and people will be able to ask questions of Jeff Hickenlooper of Vanguard Wines. Vanguard is a distributor of premium, hand-crafted wines; Jeff is one step away from earning his certification as a Master Sommelier.

Posted by johnston at 05:39 PM

May 02, 2006

New tanktop dons important message

Some people may wear their heart on their sleeve, but there are many people who prefer to propagate their feelings on their chest.

For this weekend only – Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7 – Sara Benjamin’s will be participating in a national campaign organized by Liveawear, a non-profit group dedicated to preventing partner abuse.

Sara Benjamin’s is a clothing store located at 6810 Wooster Pike and owner Lori Tanzer said she will be selling tank-tops that say, “Not a wifebeater.” A percentage of the proceeds will go to the national effort to prevent abuse.

“Liveawear ... is dedicated to inspiring activism and building awareness to prevent partner abuse. Liveawear was created to transform attitudes, increase public awareness, and inspire positive messages. Have the courage to speak up and inspire change,” the organization’s Web site, www.liveawear.org, states. Liveawear's initiatives will bring into sharp focus societal attitudes that promote violence and encourage changes in the way we view domestic violence, with the goal of working toward eliminating it.”

Tanzer also said 20 percent of the store’s overall sales on May 6 and May 7 will go to a local organization to assist victims of spouse abuse.

For more information, call the store at 272-2280.

Posted by johnston at 01:14 PM

April 21, 2006

Last Minute Reminder! Dilly Deli teams up with Save the Animals Foundations Shelter

Let's not forget what is scheduled to happen in a few days.

On Sunday, April 30, 2006, Dilly Deli Wines & Gourmet and Carr Valley Cheese Company team up for an afternoon specialty cheese, wine and beer event to benefit Save The Animals Foundation Shelter. The event will be held at Dilly Deli Wines & Gourmet, 6818 Wooster Pike in Mariemont.

Master Cheesemaker and fourth generation owner Sid Cook will personally share his cheeses with fundraiser attendees. Mr. Cook is one of a small handful of certified Master Cheesesmakers in the U.S.; a distinction awarded only to veteran Wisconsin craftsmen who complete a rigorous 15 year advanced training and education program.

In the past three years alone, Carr Valley cheeses have won more than 60 top awards in the U.S. and in international competitions. Many of these have been won by Mr. Cook’s one -of-a-kind American Originals - artisan cheeses not made anywhere else in the world. This is a unique opportunity to try some excellent, high-end cheeses that clearly demonstrate that the U.S. produces world class cheeses.

Robbie Richard Warinner, co-proprietor of Dilly Wines & Gourmet said “this is a unique opportunity to sample Sid’s cheeses, along with some great wines and beers.” Mr. Cook’s cheeses are among the hand-selected artisan cheeses at Dilly Wines & Gourmet. Ms. Richard Warinner is an eight-year STAF volunteer, and has adopted two “family members” from the shelter. “STAF is an amazing place,” she said, “I’m very excited to be involved in such a fun event for a very tireless and worthwhile group.” In addition to Mr. Cook, many other vendors have joined in, donating items necessary to make the fundraiser a success.

Save The Animals Foundation (www.STAF.org) is the largest no-kill animal shelter in the Cincinnati area. There are currently about 520 cats and 40 dogs currently at the shelter. For over seventeen years STAF has cared for, rehabilitated, and placed in responsible homes unwanted, abandoned, and abused cats and dogs. STAF also works with the community to promote responsible pet ownership and to reduce the population of homeless animals. The shelter is run entirely by unpaid volunteers and is funded solely by donations and special events.

Main event tickets are $30 each; pre-admission “meet the cheesemaker reception” tickets are an additional $10. Both can be purchased in advance by personal or business check from STAF, PO BOX 9356, Cincinnati, Ohio 45209. Tickets may also be purchased in person by cash or check at Dilly Deli Wines & Gourmet at 6818 Wooster Pike, in Mariemont. For more information E-mail Mick at Mick@STAF.org or Sid Cook at sid@carrvalleycheese.com

Version 3.2 Copyright © 2001-2005 Six Apart. All Rights Reserved.

Posted by johnston at 06:11 PM

March 24, 2006

Cincinnati's best right here in Mariemont

When people decide they want to go out to eat, there are usually two primary reasons why they choose a specific venue: the food is prepared well and the environment is good.

Well, for Mariemont villagers they need to go no further than their backyard to find arguably the best in both areas.

The AOL CityGuide has unveiled its 2006 “City’s Best” which ranks the Greater Cincinnati area’s best spots to visit, such as for dinner, for coffee, for a first date, and so on.

For the CityGuide’s Best Outdoor Dining, the village’s The Quarter Bistro and Dilly Deli ranked #1 and #2.

“Every city has thousands of things to see, do, visit and experience, but there are different reasons why a place or event might stand out to a CityGuide editor,” according to the CityGuide

“Sometimes, it's a commitment to quality, selection or service. Often, it's because of a consistent reputation for value that has been upheld and polished over many years. Sometimes, it's simply that people in a city naturally gravitate to a place because of its character, its uniqueness or its special contribution to local culture,” it continues.

The Quarter Bistro, located at 6904 Wooster Pike, is positioned right on the village square beside the Mariemont Theatre. Diners sit on a paved terrace overlooking the village fountain and eat and sip wine blanketed by the myriad colors of the theater’s marquee. The locale is an ideal hot spot for socialites looking for the perfect place for a date.

“I think a lot of the appeal is that you can come here, order an inexpensive but great bottle of wine, and just sit out on the patio and relax,” General Manager Adam Kleshinski said, adding when the weather is warm the outdoor area is always packed.

The patio is even used during cold weather periods, too. “We have blankets that have The Quarter Bistro logo that we offer people.”

The Dilly Deli, located in The Strand at 6818 Wooster Pike, is a sidewalk’s stroll away from The Quarter Bistro. Girded by the English Tudor-styled architecture of the renovated Strand, the Dilly Deli’s patio caters to everyone. Live music is scheduled every weekend, wine-tastings that people may attend are as abundant as Reds home games, the Deli’s wine selection is expansive and BeerAdvocate.com ranked the eatery in its 50 top bars in America.

And when it is cold, a large outdoor fireplace is always stoked (and a Starbucks coffee shop is right next door, so people can curl up beside the fire with a cup of coffee).

The City's Best nominees are selected by AOL CityGuide's editorial team, which is comprised of staff editors based around the country and then voted on by the public from October 3, 2005 to February 15, 2006.

For a whole list of categories and rankings check out the Web site http://cityguide.aol.com/cincinnati/

Some of the categories include:
Best Barbecue
Best Bars
Best Beer Selection
Best Breakfast
Best Burgers
Best Cheap Eats
Best Chinese
Best Coffeehouses
Best Conversation Bars
Best Dance Clubs
Best Desserts
Best Dive Bars
Best Family-Friendly Restaurants
Best First Date Spots
Best Gay Bars
Best Happy Hour
Best Italian
Best Karaoke
Best Late-Night Dining
Best Margaritas
Best Mexican
Best Music Clubs
Best Outdoor Dining
Best Outdoor Drinks
Best Pizza
Best Restaurant
Best Romantic Restaurants
Best Seafood
Best Signature Drinks
Best Singles Scene
Best Sports Bars
Best Steak Houses
Best Sushi
Best Thai
Best Vegetarian-Friendly
Best Weekend BrunchBest Wine List

Posted by johnston at 01:48 PM

March 14, 2006

Madness at the Dilly Deli

March Madness begins March 16 (that is the NCAA basketball tournament for those who might not know) and it will be followed up by the celebration of St. Patrick's Day next Friday. The Dilly Deli has a lineup to match the excitement.
The new March Madness Menu is now being offered, in addition to the regular menu. It includes a collection of new appetizers while watching the games, such as the Chili Cheese Fries made with Dilly Chili, Potato Skins loaded with bacon and cheddar, hot gooey crunchy Jalapeno Poppers, fresh sliced Saratoga Chips, Cuban Pork Spring Rolls, Fried Mushrooms, and a loaded 'Final Four' Cheese Quesadilla.

When it's time for dinner, choose from the regular menu or this weekend's tempting features:
Teriyaki Scallops with Bok Choi and Pepper Medley, served over rice for $18.95
Lemon Pepper Tilapia, sauteed and served with rice and broccoli for $14.95
Ribeye, hand cut and grilled, topped with Stilton and served with mashed potatoes and broccoli for $17.95
Seafood Lasagna, shrimp, crab and scallops layered with fresh pasta sheets, basil ricotta, roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for $17.95

For St. Patrick’s Day, try celebrating with two authentic Irish cheeses: Cashel Blue (a high butterfat mild blue made by a single family farm; left out it becomes the consistency of butter. And there is the J & L Grubb Dubliner, a mild cheese with a flavor and texture profile somewhere between a mild cheddar and a mild Swiss.

There are other events coming up in May as well.
Thursday May 4th “Meet the Winemaker” Jim Prosser of J.K.Carriere from Willamette Valley Oregon. There will be an informal “meet'n'greet” with Jim, “one of the best young winemakers in Oregon,” according to the owners of the Dilly Deli. People will taste his upcoming releases and munch on some good food including grilled salmon.

Thursday May 11th The Fife Winery Tasting with Rick Dearworth
Dearworth, with Mendocino's Fife Winery, will join the Deli for a tasting definitely slanted to the Big Red side.

For more information on events and updates at the Dilly Deli, call 561-5233.

Posted by johnston at 02:05 PM

March 09, 2006

Dilly Deli teams up with Save the Animals Foundations Shelter

On Sunday, April 30, 2006, Dilly Deli Wines & Gourmet and Carr Valley Cheese Company team up for an afternoon specialty cheese, wine and beer event to benefit Save The Animals Foundation Shelter. The event will be held at Dilly Deli Wines & Gourmet, 6818 Wooster Pike in Mariemont.

Master Cheesemaker and fourth generation owner Sid Cook will personally share his cheeses with fundraiser attendees. Mr. Cook is one of a small handful of certified Master Cheesesmakers in the U.S.; a distinction awarded only to veteran Wisconsin craftsmen who complete a rigorous 15 year advanced training and education program.

In the past three years alone, Carr Valley cheeses have won more than 60 top awards in the U.S. and in international competitions. Many of these have been won by Mr. Cook’s one -of-a-kind American Originals - artisan cheeses not made anywhere else in the world. This is a unique opportunity to try some excellent, high-end cheeses that clearly demonstrate that the U.S. produces world class cheeses.

Robbie Richard Warinner, co-proprietor of Dilly Wines & Gourmet said “this is a unique opportunity to sample Sid’s cheeses, along with some great wines and beers.” Mr. Cook’s cheeses are among the hand-selected artisan cheeses at Dilly Wines & Gourmet. Ms. Richard Warinner is an eight-year STAF volunteer, and has adopted two “family members” from the shelter. “STAF is an amazing place,” she said, “I’m very excited to be involved in such a fun event for a very tireless and worthwhile group.” In addition to Mr. Cook, many other vendors have joined in, donating items necessary to make the fundraiser a success.

Save The Animals Foundation (www.STAF.org) is the largest no-kill animal shelter in the Cincinnati area. There are currently about 520 cats and 40 dogs currently at the shelter. For over seventeen years STAF has cared for, rehabilitated, and placed in responsible homes unwanted, abandoned, and abused cats and dogs. STAF also works with the community to promote responsible pet ownership and to reduce the population of homeless animals. The shelter is run entirely by unpaid volunteers and is funded solely by donations and special events.

Main event tickets are $30 each; pre-admission “meet the cheesemaker reception” tickets are an additional $10. Both can be purchased in advance by personal or business check from STAF, PO BOX 9356, Cincinnati, Ohio 45209. Tickets may also be purchased in person by cash or check at Dilly Deli Wines & Gourmet at 6818 Wooster Pike, in Mariemont. For more information E-mail Mick at Mick@STAF.org or Sid Cook at sid@carrvalleycheese.com

Posted by johnston at 01:11 PM

Upcoming fund-raisers a worthy cause

The Dilly Deli is hosting two fundraisers that villagers and neighbors of Mariemont may want to attend.

From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 2, there will be a fund-raiser for Alan Feldman. "Alan has been one of our wine reps for over 15 years and is recovering from cancer," Deli co-owner Robbie Warinner said. The fund-raiser is a joint venture between numerous restaurants, retail wine stores, wine and beer wholesalers and concerned friends. Cost is $20 at the door and include food. There will also be a cash bar.

From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday April 23, the Mariemont Preservation Foundation Wine Tasting fund-raiser will take place on the open-air terraces which surround Dilly Deli. The event will also commemorate and celebrate the anniversary of Mary Emery's Groundbreaking Ceremony. Attendants will sample wines from Argentina complemented with food from that region. Cost is $35 per person. For tickets and Information, call Janet Setchell at 272-1166 or e-mail jsetchell@mariemontpreservation.org

Posted by johnston at 12:59 PM

February 24, 2006

An experience worth handling

The task was probably not the cleanliest I could have employed the use of my hands, fully cognizant that I had a 6:30 appointment at Eva's Esthetica to receive a manicure, but it was necessary that I lay sod to get the yard looking verdant and healthy for spring.

I had washed my hands prior to entering the day spa, located in The Strand in Mariemont, but there was still thick traces of mud evident in the wrinkles of my skin and soil was caked under my fingernails.

That was no problem, though.

Eva Kielcz, owner of the day spa, had my hands, fingers and nails looking like a baby's with a redolent fragrance of lavender in approximately 30 minutes.

"It is what I do and it is what customers have learned to expect," Eva said.

It may be just me, but when I think of receiving a manicure -- or pedicure, or facial exfoliation, or a paraffin -- I automatically assume these are tasks received by females. But, after receiving a manicure myself I am sold on the idea that men should get into the habit of having their phalanges and toes cleaned regularly.

If for nothing else than to experience how wonderful you feel afterwards.

Eva had me soak my hands in a bowl of tepid soapy water. She then massaged medicated oils into my fingers and atop my nails before clipping my nails and grooming my cuticles.

Then came more oils, moisturizers and massages to my hands.

“I could fall asleep right here,” I said, feeling as though my hands have never been treated so well. They surely have never felt so comfortable and pampered.

“I have many customers who come in here for a manicure or pedicure after a long, hard day, and they just rest their head back and fall asleep,” Eva said, kneading my hands and fingers with hers.

The human hand is fraught with pressure points. When pressed and rubbed and manipulated just right, the sensation reminds you of relaxing in a hot tub with a hundred jetstreams passively running the course of your body.

After implementing the use of several nail and skin utinsels to remove all the specks of grime from my hands (and even more applications of aromatic lotions), Eva unveils an item that looks to me like a crock pot.

It isn’t a crock pot, of course, but it is keeping hot a dense liquid: the paraffin.

“This may feel a little hot, but it will be okay,” Eva says. “I will guide you hands in and out.”

What transpires is like having your hands dipped in magic nectar.

Three times my hands are dipped in the paraffin; after the third dipping, it feels like my hands have been fitted with gloves made from a thick coat of perfumed candle wax.

My only instructions were to not move or wiggle my fingers for four minutes.

In retrospect, that was the hardest part of the entire experience – not wanting to wiggle my fingers. The paraffin needed to completely dry without breaking; it was also collecting dead skin and other unpleasantries from my hands.

After four minutes, Eva slowly peeled away the paraffin, leaving only the smell of lavender and the unmistakable realization that my hands had never felt, or been, so clean in my life.

Although Eva does receive a patronage from a host of male customers, the day spa is largely visited mainly by females.

But it is my contention that every male should make an appointment to receive a manicure ... at least once. You never know, it could lead to a lifelong habit of having your hands treated like royalty.

For more information regarding the day spa or to inquire about setting appointments, visit Eva’s Esthetica at 6824 Wooster Pike or call 527-4770.

Posted by johnston at 05:35 PM

February 22, 2006

Prom season means its time for a dress

It is that special high school time of year: the Prom.

For the females looking for the perfect prom dress, they might want to check out Heidi's Needles and Threads, Inc., located in Mariemont. Heidi's specialized in making, altering and selling dresses, and the prom is no stranger to the tailor.

In fact, Heidi says she can make any dress that a female requests.

"Many people come into my store with four or five pictures of different dresses and say, 'I want this torso, this bottom, these sleeves, and so on," Heidi said, adding she can create a dress from whatever photos a patron may bring in.

And as she should, for making dresses is her novelty.

Some females will find a dress that they really want but it does not fit them. That is no problem either, for Heidi can alter them to fit anyone.

"It doesn't matter, I can always do it," she said.

The bottom line is, if Heidi does not already have a dress for sale that a female may want to wear to her prom, then the perfect dress is only an appointment away.

But the prom is only a few weeks away, so now is the time to be proactive in finding, altering or creating that perfect dress.

Heidi’s Needles & Threads, Inc., is located at 6822 Wooster Pike, behind the Mariemont Inn.

If interested in having a dress made or for home decorating, call 272-2211 to make an appointment.

If you want a dress - anything from wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses or a casual article – altered, just stop in to the store between 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday thru Friday or 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Posted by johnston at 08:02 PM

Flischel studio sale a showcase of local images

There is more to taking good photographs than knowing how to manipulate a camera and utilizing all its functions so as to maximize a subject’s potential.

To be a good photographer means having a good eye; it means knowing the precise time of day to shoot an outdoor picture; it means possessing a finger that can quickly hit the shutter button at the precise time; it means doing your homework well before a picture is actually taken.

It isn’t by accident that a good photographer captures that shadow draping across the body of a statue while its face radiates in the sun’s brilliance; it’s not luck when the robust pinks and violet-blue hues cast by a setting sun are present behind a silhouetted old building.

Whether it’s a skylight, a house, a road sign or a crowd of people, the photographer must be thinking about angles, shadows, lighting and the mood, according to photographer Robert Flischel, who owns Robert A. Flischel Photography in Mariemont.

“It takes a lot of thought,” he said.

Flischel gets inspiration for his photos of Cincinnati by doing quite a bit of walking, searching and scouting areas. For example, one photograph he shot of a University of Cincinnati building took him four weeks of scouting for the right position, phone calls to university officials, numerous follow-ups, and, “... quite a bit of wear and tear on my legs.”

For a closer look at what all the wear and tear has accomplished over the years Flischel and his wife Jacqueline are holding a studio sale for a great many of the photographs, books, vintage posters, paintings, drawing and prints from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 17, to Sunday, March 19.

Suggested prices on the merchandise will be marked but Flischel will be listening to any offers as well.

Twenty percent of the all the proceeds will be donated to The Art League of Cincinnati, a group that documents and restores the art and architectural heritage of Cincinnati’s schools, and the Mariemont Preservation Foundation.

The sale will be at Robert A. Flischel Photography, located at 6820 Wooster Pike, above the Dilly Deli. For more information, call the studio at 271-3113.

Posted by johnston at 07:05 PM

February 21, 2006

The big tube is back

The Big Screen TV is back.

The Dilly Deli has brought back the 57" big screen TV so that villagers and patrions may watch the Olympics and the World Baseball Classic. Oh, and not to mention, the upcoming and very popular NCAA Basketball Tournament in March.

So come on in, try one of the deli's new wines, beers or cheeses and catch up on all the sporting events on a huge stage.

The Dilly Deli is located 6818 Wooster Pike.

Posted by johnston at 01:46 PM

Clear a date for a clearer complexion

Eva's Esthetica has two packages for teenagers just in time for very important moments in their lives: impending spring and the Prom.

For a limited time, teens may receive mini manicures and pedicures with day spa expert Natalie for $53.50. The deal is to help teens afford the professional services so they can look their best for less.

There is also a limited package for teens with problem skin. Eva's is offering a good skin care regiment in the form of a clear-complexion facial that can prevent resolve unflattering skin problems for only $20.

For more questions or to make an appointment, call Eva's Esthetica at 527-4770.

Posted by johnston at 01:30 PM

February 14, 2006

Changing of the guard

The Dilly Deli has had a change in the kitchen.

After four and a half years of service, Chef Richard Hargy is no longer preparing meals with the Dilly Deli. But owners Robbie and Chuck Warinner are telling people to fear not because the new chef has made a seamless transition into the kitchen and continues to create tasty dishes.

Sous Chef Eric Vice, who has been working alongside Chef Richard for almost a year, has been promoted to Chef.

"Many former customers of OuterBanks Seafood Market remember Eric as the helpful and knowledgeable 'fish guy' at the Mariemont and Pleasant Ridge OuterBanks locations, but his restaurant experience precedes that," according to the owners. "He was Sous Chef at Ciao Baby in Harpers Point under Chef Tom Milliken (also former OuterBanks 'fish guy', now Chef at Polo Grille). We feel very fortunate to have him on our team."

In other news, the annual Cincinnati International Wine Festival begins in six weeks (March 24 and 25) and the Dilly Deli has tickets to the huge Grand Tastings that take place on Friday night, Saturday afternoon, and Saturday night at the newly expanded and refurbished Cinergy Convention Center downtown.

Tickets to the evening tastings are $65 each, while Saturday afternoon's are $50 each. The Wine Festival has grown to benefit a host of worthy local causes, and a portion of each ticket cost is tax deductible.

The Dilly Deli also has brochures for all the festival events, including the dinners and seminars.

Posted by johnston at 04:51 PM

January 05, 2006

Sara Benjamin having winter sale

Ladies act quick.

Sara Benjamin is having their fall/winter sale on select merchandise, particularly sweaters, hats, scarves, sweatshirts, various jeans, etc., and patrons will find these items' prices cut from 30 percent to 70 percent off.

Sara Benjamin is a ladies boutique located in The Strand in Mariemont. For more information, call the store at 272-2280.

Posted by johnston at 05:57 PM

Check out the Dilly Deli this 2006

Now that 2006 is here, it is time to start getting back into the groove of things. For example, finding a routine and being cognizant of the schedules of various events is important.

The Dilly Deli has already begun promoting their 2006 events. For starters, the Deli will be hosting the Bell’s Beer Keg Tapping Party on Tuesday, Jan. 24. It ensures to be a good time for all who want to attend. Call ahead for details, though, at 561-5233.

The Deli has also resumed its “Saturday Shop Tastings”, where special guests pour wine and discuss the histories of various wines. Anyone is welcome (as long as they are 21 or older). The wine tastings are 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. every Saturday.

There will be a Mariemont Preservation Foundation tasting planned tentatively for April and a Fife Winery Tasting booked for May and the owners are hoping to have the events on the patio if the weather permits.

Of course, people may also just visit the Dilly Deli for lunch or dinner or to purchase a fine bottle of wine and their favorite choice of beer by visiting the shop at 6800 Wooster Pike in The Strand. The wine shop, bar and eatery is located beside Starbucks.

Posted by johnston at 05:54 PM

December 22, 2005

Celebrate the new year with a little bubbly

It will soon be 2006, and nothing helps usher in the new year better than a fine bottle (or two or three) of champagne.

The Dilly Deli has a broad selection of everyone's favorite celebratory quaff at very affordable prices.

So be sure to visit the Dilly Deli in Mariemont, located next to Starbucks and Sara Benjamin on Wooster Pike, and peruse their extensive selection.

And while shopping for champagne, be sure to also take a gander at the new available cheeses.

Cheese lovers will find Capriole cheeses from Indiana ready for purchase, including Old Kentucky Tomme, Mt. Saint Francis, Wabash Cannonballs and O'Bannon. These new cheeses are in addition to the more than 50 cheeses already available at the Dilly Deli.

Posted by johnston at 06:49 PM

October 01, 2005

Shop more, shop longer

In case you haven't noticed, Sara Benjamin's has posted new hours of operation.

Which means two things: More hours and more shopping.

Sara Benjamin's is a women's boutique located at 6810 Wooster Pike, right next to the Dilly Deli.

The new hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday thru Friday and now noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

call 272-2280 for more information.

Posted by johnston at 11:18 PM

September 29, 2005

Educate yourself with a sewing machine

Let’s say you have a long-sleeve shirt missing a couple buttons, a pair of pants that has a torn zipper, a skirt with a tear and a pile of fabric and string just sitting in the closet. Would you know how to repair your garments or make yourself new clothes?

Well, if interested in learning how to repair clothes and design and make your own, Heidi has an idea: Take one of her sewing workshops. You will learn all you need to know to operate a sewing machine and navigate a piece of thread through fabric to make whatever you want, from a scarf to a toga.

Heidi, the owner of Heidi’s Needles & Threads, Inc., in Mariemont, not only is the consummate alterer of dresses, but she is an artisan of designing clothes and home decorating.

“We have the best clothing alteration in Cincinnati. I hear this from brides who have me alter their dresses and from their friends who come here after being told of my work,” Heidi said.

“We make dresses fit and look very good, and our prices are good, too.”

If you act – and act swiftly - you can take one of her classes, which begin Saturday, Sept. 8. Heidi is offering to teach people how to sew and make them familiar with patterns, machines, fabrics, skirts, pants, simple dresses, lace and elastic materials.

There are two classes: A basic and an advanced. Each class will last four hours on Sept. 8 and Sept. 15 and cost only $20 an hour.

After receiving college degrees in both fashion design and interior design – then following them up with a masters degree – Heidi opened up her business 27 years ago in Anderson Township.

For more information on how to sign up for the workshops, call 272-2211 or visit the store at 6822 Wooster Pike behind the Mariemont Inn.

Posted by johnston at 11:16 PM

Wanna go for a ride?

Want to get out of your backyard for a few days? The Travel Authority/American Express office in Mariemont wants to help you drop the rat-race and treat yourself to a nice vacation.

The travel agency is presently offering the “Tulip Time” cruise to Holland and Belgium.

Travelers will be taken on a nine-day cruise from April 15-23, 2006, for $1,799 per person.

This is how the nine-day cruise unfolds:

Day 1: Board your overnight flight, you’re going to Amsterdam.

Day 2: You are going to tour the city of Amsterdam, the “sophisticated and modern ... rich and fascinating” capital of Holland.

Day 3: After checking out the architecture, restaurants, marketplace and museums of Amsterdam, travelers will then venture to Arnhem-Dordrecht, where WWII’s Battle of Arnhem was fought. You will visit the Airborne Museum Hartenstein and the landscape.

Day 4: The next stop is Antwerp, Belgium, the country’s second-largest city and one of the world’s most integral seaports.

Day 5: You will then spend a day in Ghent.

Day 6: The prosperous merchant with lots of money being allocated to the construction to its buildings, the city of Middleburg also possesses one of the world’s most complex engineering structures. For your sixth day, you will visit this city and its Delta Works, a storm flood barrier that serves as the final defense in the battle against the water. The Delta Works was devised after 1,800 people drowned in one night in 1953.

Day 7: Have you ever been to Rotterdam? Well, if not, then, after day 7 you will be able to poke a colored cork tack into this city on your world map hanging on the wall. You will be treated to the Keukenhof Gardens, which encompasses more than 70-acres of parkland with lakes, sculpture gardens, greenhouses and a windmill. The city is also the world’s busiest sea port.

Day 8: Amsterdam-Volendam. Volendam is a maze of fishermen’s houses built on poles and a unique open harbor. The city is also home of Edem cheese and cheese markets are still held in the summer months.

Day 9: Homebound flight.

For more information, visit the The Travel Authority/American Express office at 6800 Wooster Pike or call 272-2887, fax 272-4355.

Posted by johnston at 10:58 PM

September 09, 2005

Do you know what you are missing?

If you haven't attended one of these events, you don't know what you are missing.

The Dilly Deli’s wine tasting events are growing more and more popular.

For example, literally dozens of people attended the Sept. 7 wine tasting date on the porch of the Dilly Deli to be introduced and educated on the Spanish wines by Jorge Ordonez.

Owners Chuck and Robbie Warinner have been holding the wine tasting events for a while, but as more and more people hear about the delicious occasions - either by word of mouth or from informative newsletters or Internet promotions - the more populated the palate-pleasing soirees are becoming.

And there will be a few more formal wine-tasting events before the end of the year; there are also “informal” wine tastings from noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday where patrons are introduced to featured wines to try.

"You can try all the wines for one low price, and then choose a glass or your favorite to enjoy with your lunch,” ownership said.

As with all formal wine tastings, people can sit outside in the nice weather with family and friends, try various wines from an eclectic selection of a featured distributer all the while being educated by a knowledgeable connoisseur in the process of making the wine, how it should be drank, what to eat with the wine and how to care for it.

The tastings usually last a couple hours, where people can dine and enjoy conversation with each other all the while being served new wine after new wine.

For more information on the formal wine tastings, call 561-5233, or visit the Mariemontbuzz.com for up-to-the-minute updates and schedules. The Dilly Deli is located 6818 Wooster Pike in Mariemont.

Posted by johnston at 12:57 AM

August 31, 2005

Bring a rarity to the Dilly Deli

Chuck and Robbie Warinner are hoping to round up the clientele for a possible-rare-special occasion. In fact, they want to be the top vote-getter in the country.

“We need your help - even if you’re not a bear aficionado - to bring a rare, very special beer to our taps in late September,” Chuck, who along with Robbie own the Dilly Deli in Mariemont, said.

The beer that the owners desparately want to bring to the Dilly Deli, ranked as the 43rd best beer seller in America (according to BeerAdvocate.com), is from Montreal, Canada, and is called Dieu de Ciel Péché Mortel. It is a nine percent Imperial Stout made with coffee and between the “heavenly morning pick-me-up flavor” with a rich, thick drowsy nightcap character.

“It is just too much pleasure all at once, which is why the brewer named it Péché Mortel, which is French for mortal sin,” Chuck said.

But here is where the owners need the help of their clientele: The Dieu de Ciel brewery in Montreal has developed a prestigious name in making beer, and their Péché Mortel regularly appears on Top 10 Beers world list. The beer is rare, with only 50 cases brewed at a time, and this at only three or maybe four times a year.

Earlier this year bottles were released for the first time in the United States and now, for the first time, six kegs of the beer are being released.

The importer, Shelton Brothers, is hosting an online vote to determine the six places these kegs will go.

“Presently, we are number seven (on the list). It's time to mobilize the troops,” Chuck said, kiddingly adding, “our honor is at stake, as well as our reputation ... God help us, we so desperately want to taste this stuff on draft.”

People can help bring a keg to the Dilly Deli by e-mailing their votes to contest@sheltonbrothers.com

Simply write “Péché Mortel keg for Dilly Deli” on the subject line. The compete voting rules are online at ww.sheltonbrothers.com as well as links to more information about the beer.

Posted by johnston at 02:26 PM

August 23, 2005

Authentic toppers and other cheese stuffs

Wine and cheese is one of life’s most popular couples.

What’s wine without a good cheese to compliment it? What is a delectable, hand-crafted cheese without a glass of your favorite wine?

The Dilly Deli, located 6818 Wooster Pike, is known for its wide selection of wine. It is also a connoisseur of fine cheeses. It recently just received its shipment of domestic and international cheeses that cheese-lovers won’t find just anywhere.

“This is real cheese, hand-crafted, that you won’t find at any supermarket. I buy it all myself and I know exactly what I am purchasing. I know how old it is,” Deli co-owner Robbie Warinner said.

What makes wine and cheese a great combination? According to Robbie, cheese is very similar to wine in its production. It requires conditioning, perfect temperature, the weather, the style of the worker ... and cheese also is impacted on the how the cows are cared for.

Some of the cheeses are carried year-round, but the season does dictate the selection to a degree.

“I stand behind everything I sell here. And I can recommend a good wine (or visa versa) with your purchase,” Robbie said.

Here are some of the exotic cheeses Robbie has for sale in the Dilly Deli, described in her own words:

Whitestone Cheeses from New Zealand. “I have talked to the Whitestone folks and they are going to co-sponsor a New Zealand wine and cheese tasting, so keep an eye out for this special event.”

In a few weeks there will be Rogue cheeses available from the Rogue Creamery in Oregon, which Robbie said are not only great with wine but also very tasty with beer.

Robbie has joined the American Cheese Society, which means more hand-crafted, hard-to-find, probably-wouldn’t-know-about-them-otherwise cheeses to the Dilly Deli. “Domestic farmstead/artisan cheeses are incredible, and a great value since the Euro is eating imports alive pricewise,” she said.

For bargain hunters, the deli has marked down a substantial amount of their stock, such as discontinued items and odds and ends, to make room for the new fall arrivals.

“If you love Lillian Tatum’s Wine Toppers, there are less than a dozen left and I am marking them down to cost - $10 bucks each. These are collectible, even more so since she’s gone through a divorce and remarried and is no longer making them,” Robbie said. “The only way to find authentic wine toppers is here.”

Shoppers should also try this cheeses, new to the Dilly Deli this year:

Jindi Triple Creme (Australia)
Jindi is one of Australia's leading producers of white mold cheeses. Since 1985 the "Jindivick" cheesemakers have been creating Farmhouse cheeses by hand, using the milk of cows that have grazed lush Jindivick pastures. This triple creme is enveloped in a velvety bloom of white mould. The smooth interior paste has a butter-like flavor and a creamy rich flavor. Match the rich flavor with sparkling wines and fresh berries. Robbie's Note: if you like St. Andre this is similar with much more depth and incredible texture.

Yarra Valley Persian Fetta (Australia)
Persian Fetta is a high moisture cheese that is lower in salt than most Mediterranean cheeses of this style. Marinating in virgin olive oil with herbs, garlic and spices, it becomes a silky-smooth savory treat. It has a fullness of flavor that blends well with the oil and herbs for use in salads and antipasto. It spreads nicely on crusty bread for an instant snack, or try it with fresh greens, drizzling some of the oil on top as a dressing. Serve with dry white wines.

Tarago River Cheese Company (Australia) Shades of Blue
This is a double creme, blue veined cheese with a creamy texture and mild but distinct flavor. Each wheel comes in wax coated after being cured for 8-10 weeks. The smoothness of the paste is subtle, buttery, blue-brie flavor pairs nicely with merlot wines, fresh seasonal fruits and crisp breads. Microbial rennets are used. Robbie's note: If you are a fan of Cambozola, this is a farmstead example that exhibits multiple layers of flavors not found in the good but mass produced Cambozola cheese.

Mahon D.O. Raw milk
This is a very distinct cheese, as it is both a seasonal farmhouse and artisanal production, it is somewhat younger and made from raw grass-fed cow's milk. From the Balearic island of Menorca, the dairy Hort de Sant Patrici hand produces this cheese with the highest standards for quality from centuries old methods. It has a fairly intense, slightly salty piquant flavor that intensifies as it ages, with a distance barnyard aroma. Robbie's note: D.O. cheeses are similar to wines with DO status as they must meet strict place production and cheesemaking methods.

Bingham Hill Harvest Moon
This beautiful cheese has extraordinary flavor and great craftsmanship. The wheel is made from raw cow's milk and casts an earthy reminiscence in every bite. The rusty rind and "harvest aroma" is a true indication that a full flavored cheese lies beneath. The cheese is tart, fruity and grassy, not unlike a farmhouse cheddar. Harvest moon can develop veins of blue from the rind, through its baron white paste. A prized possession! Robbie's note: We sold through two whole wheels of this cheese in less than two weeks. Two more have arrived!

Bingham Hill Poudre Puff
We have about three pieces left of this little gem. A jewel of the Rockies! Each bloomy puff gets its name from the scenic Cache la Poudre river that runs through Ft. Collins. Ripened for three weeks, each delicate mound develops a sweet, mushroomy, soft ripening elegance. Each is robed in a bloomy white mold rind and has the richness and smoothness of some of the worlds greatest cremes.

Carr Valley Cheese
Robbie's note: These are some of my favorite domestically produced farmstead cheeses. Unfortunately the company has yet to hear the plea from smaller retailers who can't get in a 12 pound wheel of cheese, no matter how extraordinary. You may have had some of the Mobay we had in from Carr Valley a few months ago. Fortunately there is one cheese that comes in smaller wheels, and though one of our most expensive selections, also one of the most exquisite:
Carr Valley Casa Bolo Melange could bowl you over. Created by cheese maker Sid Cook in LaValley Wisconsin, brings with it a "melange" of flavors. It is made with cow, goat and sheep's milk, hand molded into a sphere and coated with yellow wax. It is dense, very firm and expresses similarities to an aged Dutch cheese. By shaving thin slices from a cut surface and allowing the morsel to melt slowly in the mouth, a myriad of pleasing smooth, nutty and scotch flavors begin to burst forth. Casa Bolo melange would fit easily into many cheese or antipasto platters, adding both texture and compatible character.

For more information about the Dilly Deli, its cheeses, wines, beers, or menu specials, call 561-5233.

Posted by johnston at 11:33 AM

August 10, 2005

Under the skin of Eva's Esthetica

Enter Eva’s Esthetica and what visitors will notice first is how clean and sterile the Mariemont day spa looks and feels.

When exiting the day spa, they will notice how clean they look and feel.

And it is exactly that cleanliness and freshness people feel after a skin and nail treatment that Eva is exfoliating for.

“I wan to take make people happy. I want to take care of them. The skin is not only just about the look ... there is an atmosphere here for caring for each client,” Eva Kielcz, owner of the day spa, said. “The skin will want to come back here.”

Eva has 22 years business experience giving facial and skin treatments, make-up, manicures and pedicures, waxing and spa therapy treatments. She also gives massages - from full-body to partial-body to the basic foot massage.

“How you feel about yourself, inside and outside, is important,” Eva said. “That is why people come here - taking care of your skin and body makes you feel good.”

The day spa re-located to Mariemont eight years ago when the location at The Strand became available.

Approximately 10 years ago, Eva and her husband, Adam, were searching the Cincinnati area for a new location to move the day spa. The two of them had scoped out numerous communities when they stopped in Mariemont to treat themselves to some ice cream.

“We were eating ice cream and we both loved the look of the village,” she said.

They contacted Spinnenweber Builders, Inc., General Manager Bonnie Malone to inquire about moving the business into the village. Malone informed them it would be approximately two years before they could move into a vacancy at the newly renovated Strand building.

So, Doug and Eva waited two years.

“I told my husband that this (Mariemont) is the place ... this is it,” she said.

Since then, the day spa has attracted a large clientele that comes from all over to have their skin and nails primped and pampered.

The most rewarding aspect of the job to Eva is garnering the trust of her clients. She said her clients trust her ability to make them feel and look splendid.

But learning the techniques of massaging and giving skin treatments does not come easy.

Eva had to go to college to learn how to take care of peoples’ skin and learn how to operate a business. It take hours of incessant reading, working, going to seminars, acquiring new methods and trends, keeping open conversations with business colleagues and ensuring all her products and tools are up-to-date.

“You must go through the process of learning or you won’t grow; it is a fastidious learning venture for me,” she said.

Eva’s Esthetica also sells a myriad of products to help remedy skin problems or promote healthier skin growth, and before each product is placed on the shelves it is first used and experimented by Eva.

For more information regarding the day spa or to inquire about setting appointments, visit Eva’s Esthetica at 6824 Wooster Pike or call 527-4770.

Posted by johnston at 09:07 PM

August 04, 2005

A peek through the Needle's eye

Her clients know her as Heidi, and when she is altering a dress or article of clothing of theirs, they know it is in good hands.

Or as Heidi says, the “best” hands in Cincinnati.

Heidi, the owner of Heidi’s Needles & Threads, Inc., in Mariemont, not only is the consummate alterer of dresses, but she is an artisan of designing clothes and home decorating.

“We have the best clothing alteration in Cincinnati. I hear this from brides who have me alter their dresses and from their friends who come here after being told of my work,” Heidi said.

“We make dresses fit and look very good, and our prices are good, too.”

After receiving college degrees in both fashion design and interior design – then following them up with a masters degree – Heidi opened her business 27 years ago in Anderson Township.

But when the location opened at The Strand in the village eight years ago, she moved her operation and has been hemming, sewing, designing and teaching workshops to pass on her expertise and knowledge of French, Itallian and German styles ever since.

Upon entering the store, people will see an array of dresses designed and created by Heidi hanging throughout the front room.

And when she is not designing, she is teaching others how to make their own clothing.

“I teach students how to sew, design, work with patterns ... I love my job, and people who come in love what I do and what I teach,” Heidi said. “People trust me and my work.”

Heidi’s Needles & Threads, Inc., is located at 6822 Wooster Pike, behind the Mariemont Inn.

If interested in having a dress made or for home decorating, call 272-2211 to make an appointment.

If you want a dress - anything from wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses or a casual article – altered, just stop in to the store between 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday thru Friday or 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Posted by johnston at 03:38 PM

July 27, 2005

Sara Benjamin's hosting hot sale

If taking a stroll around The Strand, you may do a double take and rub your eyes with balled-up fists when the words “50% to 70% off” present themselves.

The advertisement for the sale is like a small mural spread across the front windows of Sara Benjamin’s, who is currently hosting the sale to liquidate their summer attire selection.

Although it is still mid-summer, it is time to start concentrating on a cooler Autumn, and this fall’s clothing selection is starting to make its way onto the specialty boutique’s shelves and hangers.

“Yes, it still feels like summer to us, but we like to keep things very fresh around here, in terms of our merchandise,” owner Lori Tanzer said.

The sale is 50 to 70 percent off the original price of all spring and summer selections.

Sara Benjamin’s is also selling Chip & Pepper and Paige Premium Denim styles of jeans, which are widely popular amongst buyers today.

“These two styles are very hot on the market right now,” Tanzer said.

Sara Benjamin’s is located at 6810 Wooster Pike, between Starbucks and The Dilly Deli in The Strand. For more information on the sale or other items, call 272-2280.

Posted by johnston at 11:32 AM

July 23, 2005

A change in Name for the Travel Authority

The Travel Authority has a reputation for offering exceptional service to Mariemont villagers in the area of vacation packages.

Now they are official agents for American Express.

"We will be offering American Express Traveler Cheques, Gift Cards, and other services offered by the largest travel company in the World," Gail Carpenter, manager of the newly named The Travel Authority/American Express, said.

Customers will receive upgraded amenities on luxury worldwide cruise lines like Crystal, Radisson, Silverseas and Seabourn.

Check on value priced escapes to the newest luxury "all inclusive" resorts in the Mayan Riviera via one of the nonstop charter flights from Cincinnati or take advantage of the new non-stop Delta Flights to Jamaica.

Experience "old world caribbean elegance at the Luxury Half Moon Bay, the New Ritz Carlton in Montego Bay or a laid back small casual resort on seven mile beach in Negril. Enjoy a 5 to 7 night getaway starting at $989 per person including flight, hotel accommodations, all meals, and beverages including alcohol.

For 2006 there will be available specially priced group departures to popular destinations with Globus Vacations to Italy, Prague and Budapest or experience the grandeur of river cruising through Europe.

"Let the agents at The Travel Authority/American Express plan your fall or winter vacation. Now is the time to take advantage of special pricing for the fall value season in the Caribbean, or secure your desired date for escaping the Cincinnati winter," Carpenter said.

For more information, visit the The Travel Authority/American Express office at 6800 Wooster Pike or call 272-2887, fax 272-4355 or toll free (1-888)853-7448.

You may also visit http

Posted by johnston at 10:52 AM

July 18, 2005

A fresh new look at Eastern Hills Dry Cleaners

Joe Witschger, Jr. and I walk into Demetrio’s on Plainville Road and he directs me to sit in the booth in the far front corner near the neon sign.

I order a cup of coffee and he a cold drink after he chums it up with the waitress.

“You know where we are seated,” Witschger said, “is exactly where my father and grandfather opened the business.”

I look around, taking in all the dining tables, and the only thing I can mutter is, “really?”

Before Demetrio’s, the restaurant was called the Camargo Inn; and it was in the back room of that establishment (the present front left corner of the restaurant) that Eastern Hill Dry Cleaners opened for business in 1950.

Witschger, the owner of Eastern Hills Dry Cleaners, nods his head affirmatively.

“Yep, we are seated in the exact spot where my business started,” he said.

Due to the success of the dry cleaning business, operations moved to the vacant building next to the restaurant, at 4020 Plainville Road.

Witschger’s philosophy is simple but aptly applied: “We are dealing with people and families and we clean their clothes. So, I am responsible for making them look good.”

There is a drop off and pick up spot located in the Strand on Wooster Pike, next to the Dilly Deli and Sara Benjamin’s. If a customer brings in an article of clothing at 9 a.m. they can expect to have it cleaned and ready for pick-up by 5 p.m.

The dry cleaning business is no different than any other well-run business - the objective is quality and great customer service.

And many of his customers he has seen since they were children.

“I came here to work for my dad for my high school co-op job. I ended up staying at my co-op job and ultimately buying the business from my dad,” Witschger said..

“And I know a lot of people by their faces and first names. I have seen people grow up, get married, and then bring their kids in,” he said.

Albert Witschger, Joe’s grandfather who helped open the business, had a motto that said: “If we please you, tell others; if not, tell us.”

And it is pleasing his customers in which Joe takes the most pride.

“I really like taking the time ensuring a woman’s wedding dress is clean for her wedding or doing whatever necessary that will make that important time in her life less stressful,” Witschger said. “If that means taking the dress to the church and dropping it off for her, just so that things run more smooth, then that is what I will do.

“I want to make that particular day in a woman’s life as enjoyable as it should be.”

Eastern Hills Dry Cleaners also accepts the Kroger Plus Card, which allows 10 percent off regular priced dry cleaned items.

During the course of the year, Witschger will off all sorts of specials on sweaters, coats, wedding dresses, and a slew of other articles of clothing.

Presently, a customer can have six shirts laundered for $10.99 and plain sweaters for $2.50 each with the Kroger Card.

The hours of operation for the main store are 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday thru Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday and closed on Sunday. Hours of operation at the Mariemont store are 6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday thru Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday and closed on Sunday.

For more information, call 271-6488 (main store) or 272-6488 (Mariemont store), and people may e-mail comments to Witschger at EHCleaners@fuse.net

Posted by johnston at 03:43 PM

July 15, 2005

Dilly Deli: Updated tastes on tap

The Dilly Deli is not considered one of the top 50 beer and wine sellers in the country because they sell the same run-of-the-mill products as everyone else.

Owners Chuck and Robbie Warinner are incessantly researching for the newest international tastes and flavors with the intention of providing the latest top sellers to the Tri-State area.

“The beers are changin’,” Chuck and Robbie said, updating their beer list.

New to the Dilly Deli are the Great Lakes Burning River Pale Ale, the Victory Brewing Prima Pils, the LaRulles Tripel (which will be on tap) and the Stone Imperial Russian Stout (also on tap). The new beers are replacing the erstwhile Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald Porter, Smithwicks, and the LaChouffe and the Stone IPA for a temporary period of time.

The Dilly Deli also has an updated wine list, offering the newest Australian wines on the market.

“We have collected a cabal of Aussie reds - deep, complex wines that are exceptional for their price point ... all terrific wine,” ownership said. “And, tragically, all five are limited production wines.”

The new wines include:
Brothers in Arms No. 6 Langhorne Creek for $17.99, a blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon

Cimicky Trumps Barossa for $17.99, a Grenache/Shiraz aged in American Oak. It is considered by experts as “one of the finest buys in the red wine marketplace.”

Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Ridge Barossa Cuvee Barossa for $18.99

Woop Woop The Black Chook South Australian for $18.99, a Stelvin screw-cap finished blend of 95 percent Shiraz and five percent Viognier.

And...

the Yering Station Pinor Noir Yarra Valley for $17.99

The Dilly Deli is located at 6818 Wooster Pike in Mariemont. For more information, call 561-5233.

Posted by johnston at 12:34 AM

June 17, 2005

Can you say Cheese?

Wine and cheese is one of life’s most popular couples.

What’s wine without a good cheese to compliment it? What is a delectable, hand-crafted cheese without a glass of your favorite wine?

The Dilly Deli, located 6818 Wooster Pike, is known for its wide selection of wine. It is also a connoisseur of fine cheeses. It recently just received its shipment of domestic and international cheeses that cheese-lovers won’t find just anywhere.

“This is real cheese, hand-crafted, that you won’t find at any supermarket. I buy it all myself and I know exactly what I am purchasing. I know how old it is,” Deli co-owner Robbie Warinner said.

What makes wine and cheese a great combination? According to Robbie, cheese is very similar to wine in its production. It requires conditioning, perfect temperature, the weather, the style of the worker ... and cheese also is impacted on the how the cows are cared for.

Some of the cheeses are carried year-round, but the season does dictate the selection to a degree.

“I stand behind everything I sell here. And I can recommend a good wine (or visa versa) with your purchase,” Robbie said.

Here are a few of the exotic cheeses Robbie has for sale in the Dilly Deli, described in her own words:

Jindi Triple Creme (Australia)
Jindi is one of Australia's leading producers of white mold cheeses. Since 1985 the "Jindivick" cheesemakers have been creating Farmhouse cheeses by hand, using the milk of cows that have grazed lush Jindivick pastures. This triple creme is enveloped in a velvety bloom of white mould. The smooth interior paste has a butter-like flavor and a creamy rich flavor. Match the rich flavor with sparkling wines and fresh berries. Robbie's Note: if you like St. Andre this is similar with much more depth and incredible texture.

Yarra Valley Persian Fetta (Australia)
Persian Fetta is a high moisture cheese that is lower in salt than most Mediterranean cheeses of this style. Marinating in virgin olive oil with herbs, garlic and spices, it becomes a silky-smooth savory treat. It has a fullness of flavor that blends well with the oil and herbs for use in salads and antipasto. It spreads nicely on crusty bread for an instant snack, or try it with fresh greens, drizzling some of the oil on top as a dressing. Serve with dry white wines.

Tarago River Cheese Company (Australia) Shades of Blue
This is a double creme, blue veined cheese with a creamy texture and mild but distinct flavor. Each wheel comes in wax coated after being cured for 8-10 weeks. The smoothness of the paste is subtle, buttery, blue-brie flavor pairs nicely with merlot wines, fresh seasonal fruits and crisp breads. Microbial rennets are used. Robbie's note: If you are a fan of Cambozola, this is a farmstead example that exhibits multiple layers of flavors not found in the good but mass produced Cambozola cheese.

Mahon D.O. Raw milk
This is a very distinct cheese, as it is both a seasonal farmhouse and artisanal production, it is somewhat younger and made from raw grass-fed cow's milk. From the Balearic island of Menorca, the dairy Hort de Sant Patrici hand produces this cheese with the highest standards for quality from centuries old methods. It has a fairly intense, slightly salty piquant flavor that intensifies as it ages, with a distance barnyard aroma. Robbie's note: D.O. cheeses are similar to wines with DO status as they must meet strict place production and cheesemaking methods.

Bingham Hill Harvest Moon
This beautiful cheese has extraordinary flavor and great craftsmanship. The wheel is made from raw cow's milk and casts an earthy reminiscence in every bite. The rusty rind and "harvest aroma" is a true indication that a full flavored cheese lies beneath. The cheese is tart, fruity and grassy, not unlike a farmhouse cheddar. Harvest moon can develop veins of blue from the rind, through its baron white paste. A prized possession! Robbie's note: We sold through two whole wheels of this cheese in less than two weeks. Two more have arrived!

Bingham Hill Poudre Puff
We have about three pieces left of this little gem. A jewel of the Rockies! Each bloomy puff gets its name from the scenic Cache la Poudre river that runs through Ft. Collins. Ripened for three weeks, each delicate mound develops a sweet, mushroomy, soft ripening elegance. Each is robed in a bloomy white mold rind and has the richness and smoothness of some of the worlds greatest cremes.

Carr Valley Cheese
These are some of my favorite domestically produced farmstead cheeses. Unfortunately the company has yet to hear the plea from smaller retailers who can't get in a 12 pound wheel of cheese, no matter how extraordinary. You may have had some of the Mobay we had in from Carr Valley a few months ago. Fortunately there is one cheese that comes in smaller wheels, and though one of our most expensive selections, also one of the most exquisite:
Carr Valley Casa Bolo Melange could bowl you over. Created by cheese maker Sid Cook in LaValley Wisconsin, brings with it a "melange" of flavors. It is made with cow, goat and sheep's milk, hand molded into a sphere and coated with yellow wax. It is dense, very firm and expresses similarities to an aged Dutch cheese. By shaving thin slices from a cut surface and allowing the morsel to melt slowly in the mouth, a myriad of pleasing smooth, nutty and scotch flavors begin to burst forth. Casa Bolo melange would fit easily into many cheese or antipasto platters, adding both texture and compatible character.

For more information about the Dilly Deli, its cheeses, wines, beers, or menu specials, call 561-5233.

Posted by johnston at 12:34 PM

June 14, 2005

Treat yourself: Carlson Wagonlit wants to take you overseas

Have you ever just wanted to pick and leave the country for a couple of days? See some new sites? Meet some new people? Absorb the elements of a different culture?

Well, between Sept. 15 - 26, 2005, people can venture on a 12-day tour of the “Imperial Cities” which include Prague, Krakow and Budapest. There isn’t much planning on your part; all you really need to do is board the plane and the rest has already been arranged.

Carlson Wagonlit Travel, located at 6800 Wooster Pike in Mariemont, and The Travel Authority are offering the Imperial Cities package which includes round-trip air from Cincinnati, cancellation waiver and insurance, hotel transfers and departure taxes for $3,089 per person (for a twin occupancy).

Travelers will be vacationing with other people on the same package, so the opportunity to share the experience and make new friends is also available.

Along with all the sites and cities and hotels, the package also includes 17 meals: 10 buffet breakfasts, one lunch, six dinners

A few of the highlights include: Prague, Hradcany Castle, Jewish Quarter, Krakow, Wieliczka Salt Mine, Auschwitz, Jasna Gora Monastary, Budapest, Hungarian Horse Show, Mathias Church, Fishermen’s Bastion and Renaissance dinner

An itinerary has already been established to make the vacation easy and relaxing.

Day 1: Overnight flight - Site-seeing, Hungarian horse show

Day 2: Arrive in Prague, Czech Republic - Tour begins in “Golden City” of Prague where you spend afternoon at your own leisure.

Day 3: Prague - Visit the sites, Hradcany Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, spend the day at your leisure.

Day 4: Prague - Visit Old Jewish Quarter, its historic cemetary; the oldest working synagogue in Europe; the Holy Ark where the Torah scrolls are kept.

Day 5: Prague - Krakow, Poland - Arrive in Poland and drive along the Carpathian Mountains.

Day 6: Krakow - Wieliczka Salt Mine - Visit the historic Old Town, featuring Market Square, St. Mary’s Church, and Wawal Castle. The salt mines have been operating since the 13th century and is home to many sculptures and famous salt chapel

Day 7: Krakow - Auschwitz - Czestochowa - Visit the museum and former concentration camp. A guide will walk you through the barracks, prison cells and entrance gate and educate you on the history of the prison. Travel to Jasna Gora Monastery for a tour; see the Black Madonna.

Day 8: Krakow - Visit what you want at your leisure. A tour hand will be available to offer suggestions.

Day 9: Krakow - Budapest, Hungary - Travel along the Low Tatra mountain range en route to Hungary.

Day 10: Budapest - Lajosmizse - Travel to the Hungarian Great Plain countryside; learn culture and history of the Hungarian horsemen

Day 11: Budapest - Szentendre - Visegrad - Budapest - Enter the Mathias Church, site of numerous coronations of kings; visit the Fishermen’s Bastion with its white walls, towers and arcades; see Old Buda and Gellert Hill, Parliament and Heroes Square; later, explore Hungarian countryside, Szentendre, and travel to Visegrad.

Day 12: Budapest - Depart for home

To inquire more about the Imperial Cities vacation package, call Carlson Wagonlit Travel at 272-2887.

Posted by johnston at 03:06 PM

May 22, 2005

Eva's Esthetica selling a youthful look

Eva's Esthetica, Mariemont's day spa, has a new product that is selling nicely to people who are concerned with the condition of their skin.

The spa is sellng Pevonia's Myoxy-Caviar, a new application that helps bring back a person's youthful, radiant complexion.

According to Eva, the spa owner, many people have skin concerns with visible signs of aging, such as lines and wrinkles, cellular deficiency, dehydration, decreased oxygenation and lost of elasticity.

The new product is intended to remedy these skin conditions.

According to the company, skincare specialists like Eva, "... are able to effectively counteract aging," by bringing back a customer's youthful skin.

To find out more about the product, its cost and how it can help you, call the day spa at 527-4770.

Eva’s Esthetica also offers a myriad of facials and skin treatments, make-up, waxing, spa therapy treatments and massages.

The day spa is open Tuesday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Thursday 9 p.m. - 7 p.m.; Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; it is closed Sunday and Monday.

Posted by johnston at 09:25 PM

May 19, 2005

Updates at the Dilly Deli

Listen up, wine lovers. The Dilly Deli has reserved a window of opportunity from Noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday for people to taste new wines for $4.

According to owners Chuck and Robbie, "a special guest pours a quartet of new wines ... this is not a big production tasting ... (so) just swing on by to sip on a few new flavors, sample some of Robbie's new cheeses or gourmet goodies, stay for lunch if you like, and grab some cheese or snacks for your Saturday night."

The Dilly Deli debuted with Hunter Vogel, owner of KitFox, a few weeks back and it was a sellout. Available now is a Vinoce Sauvignon Blanc, a Napa Valley white for $17.99. There is also a Spanish wine, the Marques de Vitoria Rioja Crianza, a popular red wine, for $13.99. There is also a deep dark red wine from KitFox Syrah for $15.99.

Mojito Night Moving
The owners are postponing the Mojito Happy Hour to Tuesday, June 14.

For more information, contact the Dilly Deli at 561-5233.

Posted by johnston at 12:03 AM

May 02, 2005

New village business: Training 'Core'ters

Anna Burkett-Trebbi admits that several years ago she had bad posture, her stomach was not in shape and that she needed to do something to get into shape.

What Anna needed was to take a proactive approach to turning her life around and improving her fitness. She decided to start exercising utilizing the Pilates routine.

“I absolutely loved it. So, I decided to get certified,” Burkett-Trebbi said. She has been teaching Pilates for four years. She has also taught at the Pendleton Pilates and the Cincinnati Sports Mall.

Now she has taken her knowledge and fitness expertise to another level and opened a Pilates Studio called “Training 'Core'ters,” located on the second floor of The Strand in Mariemont.

“The program is amazing. It is something that has been around since the 1920s but only hit the mainstream until recently,” she said. “I've taught many people who suffered from back problems who say they feel so much better now.”

Pilates focuses on an individual’s core muscles a.k.a. The abs, gluts and back, chest, pelvic area and hips by working them through a series of stretching and flexing. Similar to yoga, there is much deep breathing incorporated with the exercise, which is conducted on a machine called a “reformer”. It is suitable for all athletic abilities, and is a non-impact form of exercise that re-aligns the spine, coordinates breath with movement, strengthens the core and creates longer, leaner muscles throughout the body.

“This will especially help people with back problems ... it will remedy those problems right away,” she said. “People with these back problems, aches and pains will feel rejuvenated when finished.

“It will help you in everyday activities and is vital in having a fit body. Pilates is the most effective way to increase your core strength while toning your entire body. Pilates is an exercise that connects the body and mind.”

According to Burkett-Trebbi, the abdominal muscles are the most important muscles in the human body. The abs are in direct connection with the back muscles and the hamstrings (muscles located at the back of the upper legs). The cause for many back problems is due to weak abdominal muscles and tight hamstrings; Pilates aims to strengthen those abs and stimulate for flexibility in the surrounding muscles.

And golfers will be happy to know that pilates improves their golf game. Tiger Woods even does it.

Workouts are one-hour each session with a group. Prior to being included in group sessions, people must first take four private sessions to become acclimated to the machine. Mat classes and yoga classes with parents and their children are also available.

Pilates Studio Training 'Core'ters, is now open but will be having an official grand-opening Friday, June 3, and is open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information on becoming a member, call 271-8500 or visit the studio at 6834 Wooster Pike.

Posted by johnston at 11:30 PM

Fashion by design trunk show at Sara Benjamin's

If you are a woman and believe the blouses in your wardrobe are no longer appealing - or maybe you are looking for a new style to suit your changing designer tastes - Sara Benjamin’s may have the perfect opportunity for a new look.

The Mariemont specialty boutique will be hosting a Craig Taylor trunk show from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at its 6810 Wooster Pike store.

“Suppose you want a certain fabric that is available at Sara Benjamin’s and you want to put together a varying number of combos from our multiple styles of shirts, during that one evening you can create your own shirts from amongst the selection,” owner Lori Tanzer said.

The trunk show will showcase the design-vision of Craig Taylor, a high-end shirtmaker who has created a line of tailored button-front shirts in a variety of silhouettes.

“If you want a particular color and fabric of shirt that will go with a skirt you own (but can’t find the shirt you are looking for) you can create the shirt to your liking,” Tanzer said.

According to an interview by Tom Julian for fashionwireddaily.com, Taylor describes his new line: “The perfectly tailored shirt starts with the woman’s shape, accentuates her best assets and minimizes her lesser ones. I always look to show the female form in its prettiest light. It should skim the body, but not hang up on it or gape at the bust.

“For me, the perfect tailored shirt would be made of superfine European fabrics, which drape and conform to the body. Sea Island cottons and Italian silks are my favorites. It would include features like flat seams, perfect stitching and genuine mother of pearl buttons.”

Women living in Greater Cincinnati will have the opportunity to view numerous shirt bodies, collars, cuffs and other shirt features and create their own shirts to fit their personal tastes.

“You can mix-match designs so you can create your own shape and design,” Tanzer said.

The shirts will retail between $175-$275. Women will be able to create and order their shirts the shirts will be delivered in four to six weeks.

Lisa Miller, an executive with Craig Taylor, will be present at the trunk show to present the new line, explain the various fits and showcase the many prints and bodies.

“The trunk show will be a fun opportunity for women who want a classic, well-tailored shirt with a modern take on vintage pieces,” Tanzer said.

Refreshments will be available from the Dilly Deli. For more information on the trunk show, call 272-2280.

Posted by johnston at 11:17 PM

April 28, 2005

New village business: Pilates Studio Training Coreters

Anna Burkett-Trabbi admits that several years ago she had bad posture, her stomach was weak and that she needed to do something to get into shape.

What Anna needed was to take a proactive approach to turning her life around and improving her fitness. She decided to start exercising utilizing the Pilates routine.

“I absolutely loved it. So, I decided to get certified,” Burkett-Trabbi said. She has been teaching Pilates for four years. She has also taught at the Pendleton Pilates and the Cincinnati Sports Mall.

Now she has taken her knowledge and fitness expertise to another level and opened a Pilates Studio called “Training Coreters” located on the second floor of The Strand in Mariemont.

“The program is amazing. It is something that has been around since the 1920s but only hit the mainstream until recently,” she said. “I have spoken to many people who were suffering from back problems who say they feel so much better now.”

Pilates focuses on an individual’s core muscles a.k.a. the abs, gluts and back, by working them through a series of stretching and flexing. Similar to yoga, there is much deep breathing incorporated with the exercise, which is conducted on a machine called a “reformer”.

“This will especially help people with back problems ... it will remedy those problems right away,” she said. “People with these back problems, aches and pains will feel rejuvenated when finished.”

According to Burkett-Trabbi, the abdominal muscles are the most important muscles in the human body. The abs are in direct connection with the back muscles and the hamstrings (muscles located at the back of the upper legs). The cause for many back problems is due to weak abdominal muscles and tight hamstrings; Pilates aims to strengthen those abs and stimulate for flexibility in the surrounding muscles.

Workouts are one-hour each session with a group. Prior to being included in group sessions, people must first take four private sessions to become acclimated to the machine.

Pilates Studio Coreters Training is now open but will be having an official grand-opening Friday, June 3, and is open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information on becoming a member, call 271-8500 or visit the studio at 6834 Wooster Pike.

Posted by johnston at 07:44 PM

April 21, 2005

Make time on May 7 for the Grand Strand

It’s time for Mariemont villagers to familiarize themselves with the various local organizations - and also time for those organizations to extend a handshake to the residents.

For the first time an organized “Grand Strand” event will take place within the village, where village organizations like the Girl Scouts, Kiwanis and Mariemont Area Chamber of Commerce will be setting up tables so visitors can meet active members, inquire what the organization does for the community and how to become a new member.

“The occasion offers an opportunity for the organizations to increase awareness of activities and goals, increase memberships, sell club related items and tickets, and create fund-raising items such as raffle or silent auction items, services, or Mother’s Day related gift items,” event coordinator Jane McDonald said.

The Grand Strand event will be from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7, located at the patio adjacent Starbucks and the Dilly Deli.

Numerous tables will be set up on the circumference of the patio. People will have the opportunity to walk to each table and peruse all the information and converse with the members.

“It is a great way for people to find out what exists in the village,” McDonald said.

Pool and tennis passes will be on sale. Since the event is the day before Mother’s Day, shopping, gifts, raffles and certificates will be available.

For example, the Mariemont Community Church Youth group will be seeking donations to fund a mission trip overseas; in turn, donators will be given a coupon whereupon the church youth group will literally come to their home and help plant annual flowers.

Fourteen organizations will be represented at the Grand Strand event: The Garden Club, Mariemont Preservation Foundation, Marielders, Mariemont Area Chamber of Commerce (who will also be representing numerous village businesses), Girl Scouts, Kiwanis, Winners Walk Tall, American Legion, The Mariemont Players, Daughters of the American Revolution, Masonic Lodge, and the Mariemont Community Church Youth.

The event is free and will take place rain or shine.

Posted by johnston at 01:07 PM

Choose Your Flavor at the Dilly Deli

The wine list ranges from Shafers, Leaping Lizard, Ty Caton and Toasted Herd to Bishop’s Peak, Iron Horse, Conundrum and Cha Cha. Throw in bottles of Barefoot, Erik’s, The Red Toad Hollow and Red Dirt Red and you have only begun to skim the surface of the vast array of wines available at the Dilly Deli.

A customer would have an easier time mapping the stars in the night sky than conducting an inventory on all the brands of beer also on sale.

So it is no coincidence that the Dilly Deli was named amongst the Top 50 beer bars in the country by BeerAdvocate.com, the only establishment in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana to be recognized.

But to call the Mariemont business a “bar” is a misnomer; it is actually an aggregate of a beer, wine, retail store and restaurant, catering to all people of all ages.

“The Dilly Deli is able to draw people to its uniqueness and garners us the recognition of having a good reputation with the customers,” Chuck Warinner, who along with his wife, Robbie, own the establishment, said.

Located 6818 Wooster Pike and adjacent the patio of The Strand, the Dilly Deli was among the first tenants to set up shop in the renovated building in 1996. Approximately 16 months ago Chuck and Robbie added the wine room which now has an ingress and egress facing Wooster Pike. It has been in business in Cincinnati for almost 20 years.

Asked what the best wine available at the Dilly Deli is, both owners shrug their shoulders.

“They all appeal to different people,” Chuck said, adding there many variables involved in a person’s opinion of a good wine and a finer wine. “Basically, it may depend on what type of day it is, the company you are with, the meal you are eating, the weather, your mood ... and so on.”

Ultimately, no matter how confident a person is on their cognizance of wine and its finer qualities, the learning process never ceases.

“We deal with over 20 wine and beer representatives a week. The education is continuous,” Robbie said.

“You can never say you know all there is to know about wine because it changes every year,” Chuck adds.

Like many people with a thirst for becoming a wine conneoisseur, Chuck and Robbie had to start from the beginning.

The two of them did not possess any prior knowledge of wine until they became business owners.

"We just had to start asking questions, studying, tasting, experimenting ..." Chuck said.

The two of them met in college and dated five years before marrying. Chuck was studying to become an engineer and wanted to pursue a career working with the river industry.

"The river industry was undergoing huge recession. I compare my situation to that of an aspiring actor living in Los Angeles," he said, "working in various restaurants just to pay the bills."

Working in restaurants was the foundation that would lead to a revised vocation.

"When this business went up for sale, the two of us decided to purchase," Chuck said. "I guess you can say we were embarked on a certain course."

DYK: The most expensive bottle of wine presently available at the Dilly Deli is regular-sized bottle of “100 Acre Cabernet” for $269.

Robbie said she and Chuck take pride in the fact that every bottle of wine sold at the Dilly Deli is marked up only $4 from its retail price.

DyalsoK: The absolutely most expensive bottle of wine you can purchase from the Dilly Deli is “Domain Romacee-Centi” for $3,300. That bottle of wine, however, is not located within the store; it must be ordered.

With the advent of Spring and Summer’s warm weather, the patio outside the Dilly Deli will be open Wednesday, April 27. There is also live music every Friday and Saturday, ranging from jazz to folk to Celtic and anywhere from solo performances to four-piece ensembles.

For more information on the Dilly Deli, visit their Web site at dillydeli.com or call 561-5233 for more details.

Posted by johnston at 12:38 AM

April 07, 2005

Through the Camera Eye of Robert Flischel

During the early 1980s Robert Flischel received a phone call from TIME magazine asking him to take some photographs of a 100-year old woman who just completed a novel that had taken her 50 years to write.

The woman was only allowing one press conference - in Xenia, Ohio - so there wouldn’t be a second opportunity. Flischel was contemplating whether or not he wanted to accept the job since it was so spontaneous.

“If you are a photographer, then you to do photography,” Flischel said, “you just have to keep plugging away.”

So he made the trip. The piece ran in TIME magazine and was subsequently picked up by LIFE magazine. LIFE added Flischel’s photos to its “Pictures of the Year” edition.

He said that particular shoot resulted in one of the most intriguing he has ever done.

That, and the time he had the opportunity to photograph boxing middle-weight world champion Aaron Prior. He was given five minutes to get whatever photos he needed - with the champ’s bodyguard aiming a gun at him and holding back a Doberman Pincer.

Flischel said it was then he learned the valued ability of shooting photographs fast and capturing the moment.

Flischel is the proprietor of Robert Flischel Photography, located at 6820 Wooster Pike in Mariemont on the second story of The Strand.

He was the second tenant to locate to the new building shortly after it was renovated nearly 10 years ago.

Flischel had been operating his studio on 6th Street in downtown Cincinnati.

“My wife and I would drive out (to Mariemont) a lot and I would see workers working on The Strand. There were these cows out front (sculpted pieces of work) and I thought ‘This would be a great place to relocate, an ideal place for me’.”

“And it has turned out that way.”

The interior of his studio is a vivid, vibrant introspective and retrospective look of Greater Cincinnati, his walls inundated with a myriad of photos ranging from architectural structures, parks, neighborhoods and faces of people which devise “... the fragile fabric of history” that gives the city its character.

He has published several books, including “Perspectives Cincinnati: The Towers Perrin Collection”, “Then and Now: Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky”, “New Bremen”, “An Expression of the Community: Cincinnati Public Schools Legacy of Art”, and “Cincinnati Illuminated: A Photographic Journey”.

Award-winning documentary film writer and director Ken Burns called “An Expression of the Community” “... right on target and just the kind of thing our distracted, diverse cities need.”

Flischel has been photographing since 1971 and bought his first camera from Barry Lefton of Provident Camera. It was a Mamiya Sekor DTL 500 on sale for $129.95. He persuaded his brother Leo to help load the film and went to photograph the Tyler Davidson Fountain, which at the time was celebrating its 100th birthday.

Prior to becoming a photographer, Flischel was doing social work. He didn’t want to pursue a career in social work any further and decided he would purchase a camera.

“I got a government grant to document other artists who were also receiving government grants. Thirty-two years later, two stops on my photographic journey remain constant ... Fountain Square and Provident Camera,” he said.

Flischel graduated from Xavier University in 1971. He studied photography under Kazik Pazovski and credits his “clean, direct style” to Pazovski’s influence.

For more information on Robert Flischel, call 271-3113 or e-mail rafphoto@fuse.net
To view some of his work, visit RobertFlischel.com

Posted by johnston at 01:26 AM

April 06, 2005

Heileman & Company the jewel of Mariemont

Heileman has been a familiar and long-standing Cincinnati name in jewelry since 1899.

So when the Wanstrath family purchased the business several years ago, they knew they were buying a respected name synonymous with quality that has served Cincinnati residents for a many years.

“We have many villagers who say they had ancestors who shopped at Heileman’s and recognize the name,” Rachel Wanstrath, manager of the Heileman & Company jewelry store located at 6804 Wooster Pike in Mariemont, said.

The store opened next to Starbucks and the Dilly Deli last November. It is one of three stores located in Cincinnati; the other two are in Harper’s Point and the Montgomery Square Shopping Center.

“We really enjoy being here in Mariemont. A lot of our customers live in the area, such as Indian Hill and Terrace Park, so it helps them because they don’t have to travel as far now,” Wanstrath said.

Heileman deals with mostly with “estate” jewelry, which is older jewelry, predominantly art-deco, that was previously owned. Heileman’s own jewelers refurbish the vintage rings, brooches, necklaces, cuff-links, watches and other items, thus maintaining their historic integrity while ensuring their longevity for future owners.

Wanstrath said her family takes pride in knowing their prices are not as flamboyant as other jewelry stores. The company is able to keep their prices lower because all the jewelry work is done in-house.

“And we have people who do all the work; we cut out the middleman,” she said.

All repairs and refurbishing is conducted at the Harper’s Point locale, alleviating costs that would normally be contracted to another entity. The company also makes their own jewelry and can duplicate pieces of jewelry if customers have a photo.

“And anyone who wants to stop in the store and have their jewelry cleaned and checked ... it is free,” she said.

On Mother’s Day, Saturday, May 7, Heileman will be having a sale. For more information, call the store at 561-3310.

Posted by johnston at 11:29 PM

April 03, 2005

Saddle up for the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is the first Saturday in May and Carlson Wagonlit Travel is offering Champion Sports Tours packages for anyone wanting to see the "Run for the Roses" and enjoy the weekend.

Standard Packages include for $1,625.00 per person:

- Four days and three nights at the Hilton Garden Inn
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Thursday night welcome reception with food and beverage
- Friday night cocktail reception with light snacks
- Hot American Breakfast buffet each morning
- General admission grandstand tickets for the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby (sections 125-128). Ticket upgrades available
- Churchill Downs transfers (Friday and Saturday)
- Ticket lanyard
- Special Kentucky Derby gift package
- Professional trip director
- Daily racing form and program
- Hotel taxes

Ticket option upgrades include:
Grandstand
1st floor - sections 122-126 at $150 per ticket
2nd floor - sections 223-225 at $300 per ticket and sections 323-325 for $500 per ticket

Clubhouse
3rd floor - sections 312-313 at $1,300 per ticket; sections 314, 315 and 319 at $1,700 per ticket and sections 316-318 at $1,900 per ticket

Carlson Wagonlit is located 6800 Wooster Pike in Mariemont. For more information, call 272-2887.

Posted by johnston at 05:37 PM

Mother's Day; prom packages by Eva's Esthetica

Two important dates are looming just around the corner.

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 8. And there is prom for all the area high schools - each school district with its own respective date.

Whether it be your mother or your prom date, Eva’s Esthetica is offering glamourous gift packages for women.

Located at 6824 Wooster Pike in Mariemont, on the second floor of The Strand, patrons may purchase gift certificates at the day spa for a number of Mother’s Day and prom packages.

There are four Mother’s Day packages:

#1 - A 30-minute facial, a 15-minute scalp treatment and a 15-minute reflexology massage for $80
#2 - A one-hour facial and a one-hour hand-and-foot massage plus a paraffline treatment for $140
#3 - A one-hour mini-pedicure and mini-facial for $65
#4 - A one-and-a-half hour mini-massage, mini-facial and manicure for $90

Prom packages include:

#1 - A manicure and mini-pedicure for $60
#2 - A manicure and makeup for $60

For the Mother’s Day packages, an extra $10 for each package will include a catered lunch from the Dilly Deli.

Eva’s Esthetica offers a myriad of facials and skin treatments, make-up, waxing, spa therapy treatments and massages. For more information on the packages and other offerings by the day spa, call 527-4770.

The day spa is open Tuesday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Thursday 9 p.m. - 7 p.m.; Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; it is closed Sunday and Monday.

Posted by johnston at 05:32 PM

March 22, 2005

Carlson Wagonlit makes village a global entity

Carlson Wagonlit Travel/The Travel Authority is among the Top 20 travel management companies in the United States.

"Our staff has traveled to the far reaches of the globe; from Vietnam to Tasmania," says office manager Gail Carpenter. "We have a world map with push pins marking every destination to which we have traveled."

This extensive travel has allowed the Mariemont staff to become subject experts in many parts of the world. From a cooking class in Tuscany to a safari in Africa, the Mariemont branch of Carlson Wagonlit Travel/The Travel Authority is up to any travel challenge.

In the travel industry, experience matters and the Mariemont office presents a host of seasoned travel consultants. Jeannie Houston, an agent for more than 10 years, specializes in luxury cruises and personalized European vacations. Other office staff members include Karen Able, Robert Beiring, Cindy Berre, Amy Bishop, Sally Gibbs, Robert Gorman, Barbara Redemeier, Sylvia Ridenour and Nancy Schroeder.

Carpenter, having sixteen years in the industry herself, says, "Despite the current popularity of online travel, we believe that people still want the face to face contact and trust level that a local, experienced Travel Consultant can provide. We strive to exceed our client's expectations and make their experience exceedingly special in every way, from start to finish."

Office hours are Mon-Fri 9a-5:30pm, by walk-in or by appointment.
-- informatiion contributed by TTA

Posted by johnston at 11:53 AM

Become a Barista ... for home

The Mariemont Starbucks, located at 6800 Wooster Pike, is hosting its annual brewing sale from Wednesday, March 23, to Tuesday, April 12. Included at the sale will be a Starbucks brewing equipment demonstration from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, April 2. Shop employees will show visitors how to brew various coffees and how brewing equipment is used. "We'll be serving up exceptional prices on coffee grinders, espresso machines and more," according to the manager. For more information, call 272-6839.

Posted by johnston at 11:28 AM

March 17, 2005

Sara Benjamin's H.O.P.E.s to help with South African aid

It’s amazing what the affects a candid conversation at the local Pancake House can have on people literally thousands of miles away.

There is a school of thought that says a flap of a butterfly’s wings in China could set off a tornado in Texas, and that same school of thought could be applied to Cincinnati Country Day freshman Maya Amoils and a small group of her friends.

Amoils’ parents are from South Africa and she has made several trips to the country. Her most recent trip to South Africa, though, provoked a revelation: Maya realized just how fortunate she is.

The majority of children living there have been orphaned by AIDS and HIV and they live in absolute poverty.

“The last time I was there I handed out clothes to many of the children. On the last day I was there all the children came runner after (me) because they didn’t want us to leave,” Amoils said. One of the little girls asked Amoils how she was doing, whereupon Maya answered, “I am fine. How are you?”

The little girl replied, “I am very, very happy.” The girl was referring to the clothes and food that Amoils and her family were able to offer the children.

As a result of that trip, Amoils decided she would strive to help make a difference in those children’s lives.

“Some friends and I were at a Pancake House and we were talking about how lucky we are (for all we have) and I said I wanted to do something for those children,” Amoils said.

“In the rural area of South Africa you pass numerous tiny shacks because the people are so poor. They have absolutely nothing,” she said. Nothing includes no running water, no plumbing, no electricity and little - if any - food.

“While I was there it just hit me suddenly that these people live this way,” she said.

Based on that conversation over pancakes, a ripple effect which will favorably impact children on a different continent was created.

Amoils started a non-profit organization named H.O.P.E. - Help Other People Endure - and with the help of her friends and several local businesses, she has been able to market and sell “H.O.P.E.” t-shirts to raise money for the children of South Africa.

Thus far, Amoils has raised more than $8,000 for the organization and come July her and some friends will be traveling to South Africa to build a state-of-the-art playground for the children.

Her goal for the organization is to build a center where the children can attend, buy clothes, eat healthy food, be educated, entertained and taught how to become self-sustaining people.

Lori Tanzer is the owner of Sara Benjamin’s, a clothing store located at 6810 Wooster Pike in Mariemont, and she has been selling Amoils’ H.O.P.E. shirts.

“I think it is great what Maya is doing so I offered a place to help her cause. We have already sold more than 50 shirts. We need more already,” Tanzer, whose daughter is a friend of Amoils, said.

Maya’s mother, Sandi, said her daughter and her friends have made the organization a success without the help of parents or other adults.

“They will be going to South Africa this summer so the students can meet and connect with the children, so they can see how these children suffer. The students will then have a greater understanding,” Sandi said. “The people live in tiny, tiny shanties with thatched roofs. And the children have absolutely nothing.”

When Amoils returns from South Africa this summer after building the playground, she hopes to raise more money to ensure the other goals of H.O.P.E. become a reality.

The shirts cost $15 and are on display at Sara Benjamin’s. For more information, call the store at 272.2280.

Posted by johnston at 02:31 AM